Conservation departments

Frame conservation

The framing conservation section was set up in 1986. It is responsible for the conservation and restoration of National Museums Liverpool’s entire picture frame collection. It employs two full-time frame conservators.

The frame conservators specialise in:

• the gilding and gesso process
• the recasting and carving of missing decorations
• re-framing and glazing of all the paintings.
• providing advice on all aspects of framing and glazing works of arts
• designing new display frames and reproducing historic picture frames

As well as these activities, frame conservators have developed special microclimate boxes for wooden panels in conjunction with the paintings conservation department. The frame conservators are also active in the field of frame surveys and digital imagery.

Staff also prepare frames for in-house exhibitions and help frame paintings for exhibitions. Frames are also prepared for loans to other institution within the UK and abroad. Estimates on glazing and crating costs are also provided.

The frame conservators are involved in the public events and formal learning programmes at the National Conservation Centre. These involve tours of the studios and talks on the framer’s art. The framing section also runs a gilding workshop from time to time.

‘The Birth of the Virgin’ by Pietro Perugino (1445 – 1523) in its specially made frame

Places are often available for volunteers or university students undertaking their work placements.

Further information

• Frequently asked questions to a frame conservator
• The conservation of the frame of 'On the Fringe of the Desert'