(1759 – 1828)
Pheasant Shooting Oil on canvas
44 x 54 cm
Acc. No: 1707

Condition: The painting was selected for conservation as the retouching in the area of the repaired tear (6,2 cm long) had discoloured. The repaired tear is seen in the central left area and this damage could explain why the canvas had been previously lined. (In raking light it could be seen that the filling in this area was still in a good condition.) The painting was also selected for treatment as the varnish appeared quite yellow and the artist’s colours could no longer be appreciated as he had intended.

Treatment: Removal of surface dirt was carried out with the appropriate reagent, following tests. Following further tests, it was established that it was not possible to remove the varnish and retouchings separately. Thus, these two layers were removed together and these were removed safely and effectively using a swab stick. Dirt was removed from between the canvas and the stretcher bar. The back of the canvas and stretcher were cleaned. A brush conservation varnish was applied. Retouching was carried out in the areas of the drying cracks using restoration colours and a final varnish applied. The frame was cleaned and the painting was secured using brass plates. This treatment was carried out in 2004.