What is known as “antique restoration and repair” is a procedure, whereas the restoring and repairing of items in a home, such as furniture, artwork, rugs, or tableware, so that they look in a state somewhat similar to when they were was originally made is professionally achieved. In most cases, something must be usually older than 100 years to be looked at as an antique.
The delicate work of furniture restoration or repair is normally carried out by a trained professional in the business who tries to apply a combination of new and old methods to return the antique piece back to its former glory and condition of beauty.
Experienced and Trained Professionals Maketh the Trade
This kind of profession is normally carried out by trained professionals, known as restorers or conservationists. These furniture restorers in London might be employed as freelance contractors for private homes and artwork collections, or they can be hired by art and history museums. Their training usually will include a bachelor’s degree in art history or a similar field, and a master’s degree in art, history or museum studies, although there are quite a number of cases, whereas the art of restoration is professionally passed down by family members who are experts in the field.
Museums also usually tend to require some years of experience in antique restoration and as an apprentice to a current professional before they will offer any jobs to any potential new candidates. Often, their work in restoration can focus on one particular area of expertise, such as the restoration of Victorian era furniture or even older artefacts going back many centuries.
Not Just a Matter of Getting Something Looking Good
The procedure of antique restoration usually involves many stages across a wide variety of skills. The completed product will have to be identical, or as close as possible, to its original condition when restored, and also functional with no worries of causing any damage. For instance, restored chairs and beds should be able to bear any weight and pressure, paintings can be hung up for display,
These different stages can include the replacement of the finish on furniture or flooring, complete replacement of covering materials on a couch or armchair, and the replacement of hardware such as hinges, bolts, and screws, along with many other jobs. If possible, a professional restorer will use as much of the original material of any job available as possible.
Occasionally, Modern Materials Have to Be Used
Antique restoration is often completed by using new materials to replace parts of the antique piece that might have been significantly harmed beyond repair with time. If so desired, furniture should only be restored in fabric design patterns and thread contents that were fashionable at the time the piece was originally constructed. This is not always the case and there are some people who just may like to keep the original frame of an item with an updated look.
Everything will depend on the tastes of the customer and what a qualified restorer may recommend.
