ScarpiniStudio
Fine Art Conservation & Restoration
Our Art Conservation & Restoration Services Include:
Examination & Assessment
Conduct detailed examinations of artworks to assess their condition, identify any damage or deterioration, and determine the appropriate conservation and restoration needs.
Research and Analysis
Research materials and techniques used to create the artwork, and the historical context to inform conservation decisions and strategies. Scientific analyses such as X-rays or infrared imaging are sometimes required.
Documentation
Condition reports provide detailed records of the artwork's condition, including written descriptions, photographs, test results, and any relevant information.
Conservation Treatment
Perform conservation treatments to stabilize and preserve artworks, including cleaning, repairing structural damage, consolidating fragile materials, and addressing issues such as flaking paint or discolored varnish.
Restoration
Restoring artworks to their original appearance or intended state often involves the recreation or reconstruction of missing or damaged elements while adhering to ethical guidelines and preserving the integrity of the original piece.
Preventive Conservation
Recommend and implement measures to prevent future damage or deterioration, such as restretching, handling procedures, framing, storage methods, and proper environmental controls.
Education and Outreach
Conduct detailed examinations of artworks to assess their condition, identify any damage or deterioration, and determine the appropriate conservation and restoration needs.
Collaboration
Collaborate with other professionals such as curators, scientists, art historians, and conservation scientists to develop comprehensive conservation strategies and treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. After a physical examination, we will submit an estimate with recommendations in a restoration proposal. For a fee, we can also provide a comprehensive written condition report with all available documentation, photographs, test results, etc. In most cases, we will deduct the report fee from the final cost if you entrust your artwork to us for the recommended treatment.
Yes. The fee for a written report is generally $800 (depending on size, age, damage, etc). See above.
It depends. We require clear photographs of the front, back, side, raking light (side lighting), and detailed close-ups of the damage. To provide an accurate estimate, we strongly recommend a physical inspection. A quote without physically inspecting a painting in person will be inaccurate and subject to change. We cannot provide a written condition report without a physical examination.
Yes. Before we can begin any work, we ask our clients to approve and sign an estimate. A downpayment of 1/3 of the final cost is usually requested.
Yes, If the work requires it, though we prefer to work in our labs. Quick access to all our tools and equipment enables us to care for your artwork most efficiently.
Yes. We repair all types of damaged canvas. When necessary, we also perform structural repairs to the foundation and framing of artwork. Some paintings require structural repairs to remove distortions, warps, frayed edges, etc.
Yes. We retouch areas when necessary, and connect missing sections that have suffered abrasions, paint losses, and other extensive damages. Proper "Inpainting" restores the damaged areas visually in a reversible process that maintains the historical integrity of the work.
Yes. If it is safe to remove without causing harm, we can remove old varnish.
Yes. We repair any painted sculpture, artifact, or other three-dimensional object.
It depends. Our specialty is fine art paintings of all sizes and media, on canvases and wood panels. When necessary, we confer and collaborate with photography, print, and paper art conservation specialists to ensure the best possible outcome.
Yes and No. If deeper, non-invasive below-the-surface testing is required, we outsource and work with labs that specialize in fine art X-ray and Infrared Reflectography testing.
No. To obtain a certificate of authenticity for any artwork, consult a fine art appraisal expert or other knowledgeable fine art professional.
No. To obtain an appraisal of value, consult a fine art appraisal expert or other knowledgeable fine art professional.
It depends. We pick up and deliver in and around NYC, works smaller than 40" x 60". You may drop-off and pick-up by appointment at our convenient South Bronx location.
Why restore a painting?
by Maria Scarpini
“... a work of art determines its restoration, rather than the opposite.”
Cesare Brandi, Theory of Restoration
There are many reasons to subject a painting to a restoration treatment: natural aging of the materials, human intervention, mechanical damages, and environmental conditions. Any of these agents can seriously impact a work of art.
The natural aging process of the materials can lead to structural and aesthetic changes that can, in turn, threaten the stability of the materials and eventually alter even the appearance of the artwork.
Previous restorations that have lost their effectiveness could also be a reason for a work of art to require a new treatment.
The goal of conservation is to preserve and restore the materials of the artwork, especially those that "carry" the image, such as the paint itself.
Conservation and restoration are phases of the same process: they aim to return the art object to a condition as close as possible to its origin and ensure its future health and endurance.
Conservation treatment may also involve work on the structure, such as consolidation of the ground layers and flaking color film, flattening of canvas distortions, reinforcing torn areas, or relining and replacing old supports.
The goal of restoration is the re-acquisition of the original aesthetic appearance of the artwork and the re-activation of its communicational energy.
This phase may include the removal of surface dirt, yellowed or darkened varnish, and often elements left over from old restorations. It may also include the filling or retouching of losses.
The techniques and materials used in restoration needs to be as reversible as possible to allow future conservation efforts.
We handle every project with the utmost respect for the artist's original intentions.
For over 40 years, ScarpiniStudio has provided fine art restoration and conservation services with a deep-rooted commitment to preserving the past for future generations.
Harnessing the combined expertise of our collaborative team to conserve and restore paintings, prints, and sculptures ensures that our client's precious artwork withstands the test of time.
Conveniently located in New York City's South Bronx, we work with museums, galleries, institutions, and private clients, providing a broad range of services to restore and enhance masterpieces of all types.