Two Convex Mirror Frames

The frames below have been highlighted here to show the diference in approach that can be taken when working on gilded historic frames. The first shows a complete restoration of a convex mirror frame. The second, the careful cleaning, consolidation and part reinstatement where necessary, to retain the historic integrity of the frame.

A Complete Restoration

The decision to completely restore this convex mirror frame was taken after it was established that there was very little original gilding on the frame. Much of the gilding had been removed or was badly worn. The frame was coated in a bronze/copper paint which had oxidised significantly. The kelpie which sits atop had a missing right ‘foot/flipper’, a missing tail end and damage to the mane. A majority of the gessoed and gilt balls had significant areas of loss.

All detachable elements were removed for cleaning, consolidating and repairing prior to the gilding work. A short film below shows a time saving technique of water gilding balls. Once gilded they could then be re-attached to the frame.

After all gilding had been completed and the kelpie had all its missing parts remodelled, replaced , gilded and/or repainted.

Minimal Intervention

The following frame may appear to have had little work carried out. It had, in fact, more work on it than the complete restoration mentioned above. It had quite a fair amount of bronze paint removal. Usually the removal of bronze paint exposes underlying issues and/or previous interventions. This frame was no exception. Remodelling was carried out to relpace previous unsuitable fills to missing areas. All surfaces were cleaned and where necessary and all was consolidated to render the frame stable. Only unsightly cracks, fissures and missing parts were remedied, gilded and retouched to match.

Images above show detail of the frame before work. Once the frame was stabilised the aesthetics were considered and an overall balance achieved. It is sometimes deemed important to retain as much as possible of the original gilded surface, this can include surface treatments and finishes such as glazes as these can change the appearance of the frame therefore it is important to recognise these finishes and their purpose.

Below, before and after.