How do you clean an old oil painting?

As an art restoration expert with years of experience in the field, I understand the delicate nature of cleaning old oil paintings. It's a process that requires both precision and care to ensure the artwork's integrity is preserved. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean an old oil painting:

Step 1: Preliminary Assessment
Before you begin, it's crucial to assess the painting's condition. Examine it for any signs of damage, flaking, or areas that may be particularly fragile. This step is vital as it helps you determine the appropriate cleaning method and materials to use.

Step 2: Document the Current State
Take a high-resolution photograph of the painting from various angles. This documentation serves as a record of the painting's condition before cleaning and can be compared to post-cleaning photos to track the changes.

Step 3: Prepare the Workspace
Set up a clean, dust-free workspace with good lighting. Ensure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling any dust or fumes from cleaning products.

Step 4: Lay the Painting Down
Place the painting face up on a clean, soft surface like a piece of kraft paper or a soft mat. This prevents any scratching or damage to the painting's surface.

Step 5: Surface Cleaning
Using a soft brush, gently remove any loose dust or debris from the surface of the painting. Be careful not to press too hard, as this could damage the paint layers.

Step 6: Test Cleaning
Before applying any cleaning solution, perform a small test on an inconspicuous area of the painting to ensure it won't cause any adverse reactions.

Step 7: Application of a Neutralizer
If the painting has a yellowed varnish or discoloration, apply a conservation-grade solvent, such as Gainsborough Neutralizer, to a piece of cotton wool or white cotton cloth. Gently wipe over the face of the painting to clean off the surface dirt and discoloration. This step should be done with care to avoid damaging the original paint.

Step 8: Solvent Cleaning
For stubborn dirt or varnish, a mild solvent may be necessary. Use a conservation-grade solvent and a soft cloth to gently clean the painting. Always work in small sections and avoid over-cleaning.

Step 9: Rinse and Dry
After cleaning, gently rinse the painting with a soft cloth dampened with deionized water to remove any residual solvent. Allow the painting to dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Step 10: Final Inspection
Once the painting is dry, inspect it for any remaining dirt or areas that may need further attention. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process.

Step 11: Re-varnishing (Optional)
If the painting was previously varnished and the varnish was removed during cleaning, it may be beneficial to apply a new, conservation-grade varnish to protect the painting. This step should only be done by a professional conservator.

Step 12: Documentation and Storage
After cleaning, take a new set of photographs for comparison and documentation. Store the painting in a climate-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight, and handle it with clean hands and gloves.

Cleaning an old oil painting is a delicate process that should be approached with respect for the artwork's history and value. Always consult with a professional conservator if you are unsure about any step of the process.

Take a photo upon completion for later comparison.Lay the oil painting to be cleaned face up on a piece of kraft paper. ... Apply Gainsborough Neutralizer to a piece of cotton wool or white cotton cloth and gently wipe over the face of the oil painting to clean off the surface dirt.More items...