“I've been at the Metropolitan for 27 years now, and I have long enjoyed working with Lowy and its talented people. What I have especially appreciated is their willingness to really go out of their way to meet our sometimes rather special demands. They have re-gilt old frames using the old gesso; copied old frames; created historically plausible frames where nothing original survived; and, of course, provided a wonderful inventory of period frames. Walking through the galleries, I am constantly aware of the ways in which the appearance of our collection has improved thanks to Lowy's talents.”
—Keith Christiansen, Jayne Wrightsman Curator, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Giltwood and Antique Frame
Restoration and Conservation

Lowy's skilled carvers, joiners and gilders routinely work with antique frames of all styles and periods, using methods that incorporate a unique blend of tradition and technology. Trained to work with time-tested materials and craftsmanship, as well as modern reversible finishes, they can correct any structural or surface problem. Antique frame restoration and conservation treatments range from stabilizing the joinery to reducing or enlarging a frame to match a painting's size. Our artisans also treat flaking gesso and gesso losses, and replace missing surface decoration with either hand-carved gilt-wood or newly cast composition ornaments identical to the originals. When it comes to finishing, they take great care to ensure that the color and karat of the newly applied gold leaf is harmonious with the original gilding, before duplicating the antique patina. With each step, Lowy strives to maintain the historical integrity of the frame, while observing the highest conservation standards.

 

Further Reading

» What Is Gesso and How is it Made?

» What is Rabbit Skin Glue