Comprehensive Art Services
Specialising in Paintings, Works on Paper and Photographic Media throughout New Zealand & Australia.
Art conservation and restoration combines scientific knowledge with practical skill to preserve and restore artworks affected by age, environmental conditions, accident, neglect, or deterioration. Every artwork is assessed individually, with treatment recommendations based on both preservation and presentation.
Historic Print – Acidity Reduction & Reframing
Gilding and Frame Restoration
We restore frames made from carved wood, compo (composite wood), and gesso, as well as plain wooden frames. We utilize specialist techniques to restore, repair, or re-gild damaged frames.
Before & After
Move the slider side-to-side to see this frame before and after restoration
Structural and Aesthetic Repair
- Missing Ornaments: We can cast new ornaments and decorative elements to replace missing or damaged parts.
- Toning and Matching: New gilt parts can be toned down to seamlessly match the existing frame finish. If the original gilding is beyond repair, the entire frame can be re-gilded and toned to the desired patina.
Object Restoration & Repair
We offer all aspects of conservation treatment, including cleaning, structural repair, restoration, and preservation, alongside documentation of 3D art objects and artifacts made from materials such as glass, ceramics, metal, wood, and plaster.
Object Restoration (3D Artifacts)
- We repair broken, cracked, and chipped items and sculpting, and attach replacement pieces.
- We update colors, including silver, gold, and patina, and restore the original antiquing or style of the object.
Common Problems We Treat
- Breakages and structural damage
- Cracks, chips, and losses
- Detached components
- Surface wear and deterioration
- Loss of decorative finishes
- Fading, discolouration, and staining
- Damaged gilding, silvering, and patination
Conservation Approach
Our aim is always to retain as much original material as possible while stabilising damage and improving presentation. Treatments are tailored to the individual object and may include structural repairs, reconstruction of missing elements, surface cleaning, colour integration, gilding, silvering, and patina matching.
Antique Painted Furniture Restoration
We conserve and restore painted furniture while preserving its age, character, and historic integrity.
Common Problems We Treat
- Flaking and unstable paint
- Surface dirt and discolouration
- Scratches, abrasions, and wear
- Structural damage
- Missing decorative elements
- Previous inappropriate repairs
Conservation Approach
Particular emphasis is placed on retaining original finishes wherever possible. Our aim is to stabilise deterioration and preserve the natural patina of the piece without making it appear over-restored.
Rush and Cane Seating Restoration
We restore traditional woven seating using historically appropriate materials and techniques.
Materials We Work With
- Cane webbing
- Hand-caned seats
- Natural rush
- Danish cord
- Oriental seagrass
Restoration Services
- Complete seat replacement
- Traditional hand weaving
- Structural repairs
- Replacement of damaged weaving
- Conservation of original materials where possible
Insurance, Water, Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration
We regularly assist private clients, insurers, loss adjusters, restoration companies, and claims managers throughout New Zealand and Australia.
Common Types of Damage
Water Damage
- Flooding
- Burst pipes
- Roof leaks
- Storm damage
- Accidental water exposure
Fire & Smoke Damage
- Smoke staining
- Soot contamination
- Heat damage
- Odours
- Surface contamination
Transit & Impact Damage
- Tears and punctures
- Broken frames
- Cracked glazing
- Structural damage
- Detached components
Why Early Action Matters
Prompt assessment can significantly reduce secondary damage and improve the chances of successful conservation, particularly following water or smoke exposure.
