The Conservation of a Cornelius Janssens Portrait - Narrated

In this narrated extended-play video, Julian Baumgartner of Baumgartner Fine Art Restoration, the oldest and now second generation conservation studio in Chicago focuses on the conservation of a portrait by the English painter Cornelius Janssens.

The painting was considerably dirty with accumulated grime as well as a discolored varnish. In addition there was quite a bit of overpainting throughout the clothing that needed to be removed as well as some in the background that was attempting to cover up a minor indentation. Structurally, the painting's old lining and animal adhesive were removed, a new tacking edge added, the stretcher cleaned and the painting re-stretched. Finally, the frame was cleaned and minor restoration was performed on losses.

All of the materials used during this conservation are archival and fully reversible. The techniques performed seek to be as minimally invasive as possible and respectful of the original materials, techniques and artistic vision. All of the work performed adheres to the AIC Code of Ethics.


This video is not meant to be instructional or provide detailed guidance for the application of materials or techniques used in conservation.