I am most fortunate in being able to secure a series of four articles on this otherwise complicated subject by one of the most articulate of Conservators - Valentine Walsh. I am most grateful for this.

Ms Walsh writes

THIS SUMMARY IS AN ATTEMPT TO GIVE COLLECTORS AND OTHERS INTERESTED IN LOOKING AT PAINTINGS A BASIC IDEA OF THE CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY INVOLVED IN THE MAKING OF PAINTINGS, CHANGES IN THEIR CONDITION OVER TIME AND IN THEIR RESTORATION. IT ALSO GIVES SHORT GUIDELINES ON THE CARE OF PAINTINGS.

Just click on the one you wish to read first.

1. AN INTRODUCTION TO THE MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION OF EASEL PAINTINGS

2. PAINTINGS AGEING GRACEFULLY OR GRIEVOUS BODILY HARM?

3. SO WHAT IS IT THAT CONSERVATORS CAN DO?

4. HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR PAINTINGS

These papers, like the whole of the web site, are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the author's permission. Ms Walsh has won prizes and much acclaim for a technological invention of some importance to her field of activity and I shall try to get her to report on this matter as well, although it is mostly of interest to very specialised specialists.

(Illustrations to these articles will follow).

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The author would be happy to advise on any conservation questions which you might have. Please do not hesitate to contact her at the address below.

Valentine Walsh, FIIC, BA

Conservation and Restoration of Fine Art

3 Whitehorse Mews

London SE1 7QD

+44 171 261 1691 (phone)

+44 171 401 9049 (fax)

or by e-mail to vwalsh@dircon.co.uk.