This delightful scene of high society Veneto, Italy at the end of the 1700’s was purchased by its collector and brought to us for its problem of flaking paint. Apparently, the cleaning lady’s damp rag wiping down the lower areas (most easily reached) has caused this oft seen problem… which is totally avoidable.
Flaking in lower areas is due to wiping the surface with a damp rag.
But even experienced collectors make mistakes. This problem of flaking is not the only problem: the painting has already been through at least a couple of restorations that were poorly done including mounting this painting to masonite and repainting much of the sky and clouds. What was thought to be valued at $25,000 is now being dumped for $1,000.00 because of condition problems.
Flaking paint... this could have been avoided
So, now, what to do?! The conservation costs will be at least $1,000.00. In the end, an art lover for this piece will spend to stabilize the condition and to have it look wonderful again… and perhaps recuperate much of the lost $25,000 value?
For more tips on collecting follow us on Facebook at “Fine Art Conservation” and “Tips for Art Collectors”
Conservation questions” Call us at 805 564 3438
Appraisal questions? Call 805 895 5121
What can you do at home to save your stuff? See the “Productions” section of this website.