Francis W Downing Ltd

Francis W Downing Fine Art Conservation

The studio was established in 1976 and is equipped to conserve and restore easel paintings in oil and egg tempera including decorative fixed painted wood structures, from Italian renaissance to present day Acrylic painting; Combining over forty years’ experience with ‘up to date’ Conservation equipment and techniques.

The Studio cares for paintings from initial cleaning, repair and essential treatment to consolidation of flaking paint including lining and necessary retouching. Advice, examinations, Conservation and Restoration work is regularly carried out for Museums and Galleries, National Trust, Historic Houses, Churches, Local Authorities Fine Art Insurers and Private Clients.

We provide onsite visits and offer free assessments and advice on collections. Conservation can be carried out in the studio and onsite as required.

Services include general and in-depth advice and assessment for Conservation with full reports when required; Also-

– Condition Reports

– Free assessment and advice on Collections

– Advice on preventative Conservation

– On site visits

– On site work

– Full Conservation and Restoration work

– Fire and flood emergency response

– Disaster Planning

– Damage assessment

– Free estimates

– Collection and delivery

– Conservation Framing (National Trust standard)

The Studio specialises in difficult and problematic cases.

Initial Examinations are Free

Where necessary, microscopic, x-ray, infra-red and chemical analysis are used to support examination prior to commencement of any Conservation or Restoration work.

Written and photographic records are prepared and kept throughout each stage of treatment.

With free, no obligation examination, assessment and estimate, whether at the Studio or on site.

All work is assessed, recorded and carried out to Museum Standards using high quality reversible and removable materials and up to date techniques. Professional Practice and treatments follow the Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice as promoted by ECCO (European Confederation of Conservators-Restorers’ Organisations).

Francis Downing is an Accredited Conservator with ICON (Institute of Conservation).

The studio follows security standards as set by the National Trust.

Beningbrough Hall painting restoration

To read an article from the Yorkshire Post about the restoration, please click here

Links

ICON Conservation Register

Building Conservation Directory

‘Conserving and Restoring Church Hatchments’ Article

‘Time and Conservation of Paintings’ Article

Francis W Downing Ltd

Exhibitor Information

Gallery