(1759 - 1828)
Title: Partridge Shooting Technique: Oil on canvas
Signature: present and dated 1789
Dimensions: 35.5 x 43 cm
Frame: Wooden, gesso-moulded, gilded gold
Treatment: October – December 2006

CONDITION REPORT
SECONDARY SUPPORT: The stretcher has 5 members, 8 of the 10 keys are present and 2 are missing. The overall condition is sound. On the cross-member the following label reads;
The following inscriptions can be seen:

James Bourlet & Sons, Ltd.,
Fine Art Packers, Frame Maker
C 23863
17 & 18, Nassau Street,
Mortimer Street, W.
Phone;- Museum 1817 & 7588
The label is seen on the top right hand side on fine pulp paper with black ink print.

PRIMARY SUPPORT: The canvas has been lined. Both canvases have a tabby weave, however the lining canvas is of a finer weight. The original canvas no longer has its original tacking margin. The tacks are evenly-spaced and these are in a good condition.

GROUND: The ground appears to be cream in colour, applied thinly and is in a good condition.

PAINT LAYER: The artist has applied his paint evenly and the latter shows a distinct age-crack pattern that is particularly clear in the area of the sky. The overall condition is good.

VARNISH LAYER: The natural resin varnish layer is discoloured and a layer of surface dirt covers this.

TREATMENT CARRIED OUT A photographic record was taken and this was maintained throughout the treatment.

Tests were carried out to remove the surface dirt and following this the appropriate reagent was used to remove this layer safely and effectively. Cleaning proceeded using a swab stick.

Following tests including a safety margin-cleaning test, an organic solvent was used to remove the varnish layer. Cleaning also proceeded using a swab stick.

An isolating conservation varnish was applied with a brush. Small localized losses were retouched and a final varnish was applied.

The painting was secured in the frame using brass plates after the frame had been restored.