An Art Advisor’s role in assessing condition
One of the several tasks an advisor is responsible for during normal due diligence is assessing the condition of an artwork before it is acquired. This is an important step for every piece, but crucial for older works. A condition report helps collectors make informed decisions. The physical state of a piece can significantly impact its value, longevity, and desirability. A detailed examination allows advisors to identify potential concerns such as losses of paint, the presence of varnishes, and restorations, that could affect both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the artwork.
The older a piece is, the more likely it has encountered some modification or restoration efforts over the years, along with normal signs of aging such as loosened canvas, cracked substrate, or wear along the edges of the stretcher bars. These issues are to be expected. The advisor’s task is to first assess the issues, their severity and implications, and then determine what can and should be done to remedy them. In some cases, the best solution is to do nothing. In others, past restorations are too extensive for the piece to be recommended as a wise purchase.
Three of the main condition issues an advisor looks for are:
Losses: Whether due to time, environmental factors, or mishandling, missing portions of paint, canvas, or support material can compromise the artwork’s overall composition. An advisor works with conservators to determine the extent of these losses and whether restoration and/or conservation would be appropriate and effective.
Varnishes: Varnishes, or clear coatings applied over the paint layer, have been widely used throughout the centuries, and can affect an artwork’s appearance and preservation. Over time, natural varnishes can yellow or become cloudy, obscuring the original colors and details. An art advisor assesses whether a work has been over-varnished or if past attempts at removal have caused unintended damage. Understanding the type and condition of varnish helps in the overall assessment of the work.
Restorations: If done improperly, a restoration can alter an artwork’s aesthetics and value. An advisor examines past restoration efforts, identifying over-painting (where new pigment has been applied over the original painting), structural reinforcements (such as lining), or inpainting (where new pigment is applied to areas of paint loss), that may have changed the work’s original intent. They rely on ultraviolet light, infrared scanning, and historical records to analyze these interventions and determine if they enhance or diminish the piece’s integrity.
By conducting thorough assessments of condition issues, and making recommendations for conservation and restoration, art advisors help collectors navigate the complexities of acquiring and preserving significant artworks. Their expertise ensures that every piece is evaluated not just for its artistic and historical value, but also for its physical soundness, safeguarding the legacy of the piece for future generations.