Damage We Address

There are a variety of problems that can originate from poor environmental conditions, framing, handling or mishaps. These problems can detract from both your enjoyment of the piece and/or it’s value by altering the piece in a detrimental way. More importantly, there is risk of further physical deterioration of an already compromised piece.

The following is a list of damage that we commonly see and remedy in our studio:

• Acid Burn – Browning/yellowing of the paper. This also makes paper brittle.
• Matte Burn – Brown line of acid burn around image.
• Foxing – corroding particles in paper create unsightly brown spotting.
• Acidic backing and/or matting – can cause acid burn if not removed.
• Tape and adhesive – will stain the paper if not removed.
• Poor frame conditions – while a piece may seem protected behind glass or framing that may be contemporary to the piece, this could very well be the worst environment for paper. Acidic materials, not being buffered from touching the glass, trapped insect droppings, trapped mold spores and humidity can deteriorate a piece if not framed properly.
• Water Damage – rippling, mold/mildew and staining can all occur from exposure to moisture.
• Insect Damage – silverfish eat away paper and pigment. Droppings can deteriorate and stain paper.
• Creasing, handling cockles, deep folds, wrinkles and rippling.
• Surface dirt – dust, soot, fingerprints, hair, fur, insect droppings, etc.
• Abrasions – scuffs, shiny marks, scratches with pigment loss, textural damage.
• Tears, holes and missing paper.
• Pigment loss, cracking and fading.

Complex restoration is one of our specialties... if you have a piece that is damaged in a manner that is not listed above, we can still help you. We often need to assess unique damage situations and determine a safe and effective solution.

Before you give up on your treasured work on paper, call A Conservative Approach.