top of page

Sculpture Conservation Treatments

madonna and child BT1.jpg

Madonna and Child, Gilded Polychrome Sculpture - During Treatment - This sculpture was faced with tissue to secure loose gesso and gilding. After removal of the facing, the losses were repaired using traditional water gilding. 

madonna and child  AT2.jpg

Madonna and Child, Gilded Polychrome Sculpture - After Treatment - The ornate, embroidered texture on the garment was achieved using a punch gilding technique.

owl bt.jpg

 Owl - Before Treatment 

owl 1.jpg

 Owl - After Treatment 

eagle bt.jpg

 Eagle- Before Treatment 

eagle at.jpg
What's involved in

Sculpture Conservation Treatments

Don has repaired and restored sculpture and decorative arts including gilding.  He has a broad knowledge of materials: how they are made, their chemical and physical properties and their long-term behaviour. He has treated many three dimensional objects made from a range of materials including: polychrome, glass, ceramic, bronze, steel, wood, stone, fiberglass, ivory and argillite.

The variety of materials used in sculptures involve treatments ranging from surface cleaning to reconstruction of shattered glass.  Past treatments include restoration of gilded polychrome sculptures, reattachment of broken pieces of argillite, reattachment of broken neck of brass peacock,  repair and reattachment of broken pieces of ceramic rabbit and treatment of an outdoor stainless steel sculpture with trusses and a pool.

Initial Examination

CAC begins with a thorough examination through visual inspection, photographic examination and chemical testing, where necessary. Based on this information, CAC plans the treatment and preservation of the sculpture.

​Condition Report and Treatment Proposal

After this initial examination, the owner is provided with a Condition Report, Treatment Proposal and estimate or quote. 

Due to the unique and complex nature of three-dimensional objects, creative and innovative solutions are often required to provide the optimum result.

Common Problems

Sculpture Conservation Treatment of common problems includes:

  • Broken or missing pieces

  • Material or structural damage

  • Paint loss or other surface damage

  • Unstable or incompatible materials

  • Metal corrosion and other chemical changes

  • Water and fire damage

  • Air contaminants such as smoke and other pollutants

  • Damage caused by insects, birds and other pests

  • Vandalism and graffiti

Sculpture Conservation Treatment

CAC's treatment involves using tested and approved conservation materials and methods with the highest level of skill, knowledge and craftsmanship.  

Conservation Report and Aftercare Recommendations

After the treatment is complete, you are provided with a Conservation Report that contains written and photographic documentation. Recommendations and information for aftercare are also provided, if required.

 Eagle- After Treatment 

bottom of page