Oil Paintings
Conservation of a Severely Cracked Oil Painting
Medium
Oil on panel
Treatment
Consolidation & Preventive Conservation
Damage Type
Structural Damage
This case study documents the conservation treatment of conservation of a severely cracked oil painting, undertaken by Chief Conservator & Founder Aishwarya. The project presented a series of technical challenges that required careful examination, methodical planning, and the application of internationally recognised conservation standards.
Initial Examination
The work arrived at our studio for a full condition assessment. Examination under raking light, UV fluorescence, and natural illumination revealed the extent of the damage and informed the development of a treatment proposal. Extensive craquelure had progressed to active paint lifting across the central third of the composition, placing the work at immediate risk of loss.
Treatment Approach
Following consultation with the collector and a review of the available literature, a treatment programme was developed addressing the primary areas of concern. The approach prioritised reversibility and minimal intervention, in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the International Institute for Conservation.
Conservation Treatment
Treatment focused on consolidation, stabilization, preventive conservation. Each stage was documented photographically and recorded in the treatment log. Where decisions were required that might affect the appearance or integrity of the work, the collector was consulted before proceeding.
Outcome & Recommendations
The lifting paint was consolidated using a reversible adhesive applied under controlled humidity. The panel was stabilised with a cradle system and the work is now held in climate-controlled storage with a monitoring programme in place.
"Conservation is not the act of stopping time — it is the act of understanding it, and working with it rather than against it."
Aishwarya Ch
Technical Methods Employed
Raking light examination, cross-section analysis
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