What types of art and antiques can be restored?
We specialize in the professional restoration and repair of a wide range of fine art and antiques, including porcelain and ceramics (invisible restoration, recreating missing parts, chip repair, gap filling, glaze touch-ups, sealing, color matching), paintings (cleaning, repair of cuts and perforations, retouching and color matching, canvas repair, stretching and flattening, removal of old varnish, paint restoration), frames (restoration and repair, replacing or recreating missing parts, carving, touch-ups), gold leaf (restoration and application on art frames, antique furniture, icons, mirrors, with age-matching), various visual arts (sculptures, stone, glass, ivory, resin, terra cotta, marble, fresco), vintage and collectible tiles (recreating missing/broken parts, repair of chips, dents, paint, and finishing), and Japanese art (pottery, ceramic, enamel plates using Kintsugi repair techniques).
How is an oil painting restoration typically performed?
The process of restoring an oil painting involves several key steps. It begins with a thorough inspection and assessment to identify damages, discolorations, or deterioration. This is followed by cleaning to remove dirt and grime. Next, retouching and inpainting are done to carefully fill in damaged or missing areas with color-matched paint. Consolidation is then applied to stabilize the painting, often followed by lining, which involves attaching a new canvas for support. Finally, a protective varnish is applied to the surface.
What is "invisible restoration" in the context of porcelain and ceramic repair?
Invisible restoration is a specialized technique, particularly applied to porcelain and ceramics, aimed at repairing damage in such a way that the restoration is virtually undetectable. This involves meticulously fixing and repairing missing parts and chips, recreating chipped or broken pieces, filling gaps, performing glaze touch-ups, sealing cracks, and precisely color-matching the repaired areas to the original material. The goal is to bring the object back to its original appearance without any visible signs of repair.
What specific techniques are used in restoring Japanese art?
Japanese art restoration includes working with pottery and ceramic, enamel plates, and other objects. A notable technique mentioned is Kintsugi repair, which is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by mending the areas of breakage with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. This method highlights the repair as part of the object's history rather than hiding it.
How can I get an estimate for a restoration project?
To receive a complimentary estimate and a swift reply, we ask that you send a text message to 818-468-0503 or an email to elzababiner@yahoo.com. Please include a short summary of the damage, rough dimensions of the piece, and several photos clearly showing the areas needing restoration. For paintings, please include photos of the front and back of the piece, as well as the approximate size.
What kind of damage can be repaired on art frames?
Art frame restoration and repair services address issues such as replacing or re-creating missing parts, carving, and touch-ups. Gold leaf restoration and application are also offered for various items, including art frames, antique furniture, icons, and mirrors, with a focus on age-matching.
Can you describe the level of care you take with clients' art and antiques?
We understand the sentimental and monetary value of art and antiques. Our approach is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, respect for the artwork as if it were our own, and a commitment to preserving its historical and artistic integrity. Testimonials from satisfied clients highlight the care, skill, and dedication involved in the restoration process, often describing the results as "miraculous" and exceeding expectations.
Do you work exclusively with private collectors?
While many of our clients are private collectors who entrust us with their cherished heirlooms and valuable art, we also work with antique shops, resellers, various studios, and artists. Our expertise is available to anyone seeking professional, museum-quality restoration services.
How long does the restoration process typically take?
The timeframe for restoration varies significantly depending on the type of damage, the complexity of the piece, and the restoration techniques required. Some simpler repairs may take less time, while more intricate projects, such as the restoration of a Satsuma ceramic vase broken into dozens of pieces or a Royal Vienna porcelain plate with extensive damage, can take several weeks or even months to ensure the highest quality and an invisible finish. A more specific timeframe can be estimated after assessing the piece.