Conservation

The Sutcliffe Galleries are associated with the most expert and long accredited conservators and can offer in-depth advice on all aspects of conservation – from removal of dirt and re-varnish, to varnish removal, consolidation of flaking paint, lining, repair of tears and reconstruction of areas of lost paint. We will provide detailed cost estimates for clients, who require their paintings renovated, and we will personally oversee any such works.

The main ethic of conservation, is to use materials that are reversible, to cover only the areas, where the original paint is missing and most importantly, to only put back what was there before.

A detailed insurance replacement valuation and fully researched documentation will be provided on completion.

Framing

The Sutcliffe Galleries have an extensive knowledge of framing are able to offer advice on selecting the frame most suited to an individual painting. We have access to an extensive range of frames constructed from original moulding and finished with distressed gilt, metal or gold leaf finishes, using traditional methods.

Original period frames can be repaired and restored – mouldings copied and replaced, loose plaster-work and carving consolidated and the gilding or gold-leaf, either touched in or the whole frame re-gilded. The restored frame can be subtly distressed to give a tasteful period appearance.

Clients are given advice on the period and style of frame, which corresponds most closely to the original. The frames are individually crafted for the painting, which is then hand-fitted into the new or restored frame.

Lighting

The Sutcliffe Galleries appreciate the importance of presentation of fine paintings, and are aware that positioning and lighting play a major role. We are able to advise on the selection and installation of the correct lighting, using the most up to date yet discreet systems available. We are also able to supply and install the traditional fixed frame-mounted lights, battery-operated lights, halogen ceiling lights and the new ‘hidden-wire’ lights (for clients who can not put cables into walls and do not wish to have spot lights on the ceiling or a battery option).