Carl Adolph Wangberg (?)
Franz Kieswetter
Frau Kieswetter
Condition before restoration
The canvas supports of both paintings exhibit slight deformation, localized undulations, and occasional tears. The adhesion of the ground and paint layers is severely compromised. Extensive, brittle, flaking craquelure is present throughout, with localized lifting, detachment, and losses extending to the canvas support. Numerous paint losses occur in recurring linear patterns across the painted surfaces, possibly associated with mechanical stresses within the canvas supports. Both paintings exhibit widespread surface soiling and degraded, significantly yellowed varnish, adversely affecting their original tonality, contrast, and visual legibility. The decorative frames exhibit localized mechanical damage, losses of ornamental elements, and deterioration of surface finishes. Their surfaces are heavily soiled with accumulated dust, grime, and insect deposits. Areas of secondary overpainting and poorly executed retouching from previous interventions are also present.
Treatment carried out
Documentation and Preliminary Consolidation
Prior to treatment, both paintings were comprehensively documented photographically, including overall views and details of the condition and deterioration of individual structural layers. Areas of lifting and flaking paint were locally consolidated to ensure stability during subsequent handling and treatment.
Surface Cleaning and Varnish Removal
Following preliminary consolidation, loose surface deposits were removed by gentle dry cleaning. Degraded and yellowed varnish layers were subsequently removed using methods and solvents selected on the basis of preliminary solubility and sensitivity tests.
Consolidation and Structural Stabilization
The ground and paint layers were consolidated to re-establish adhesion between the individual layers and the canvas supports, particularly in areas of extensive flaking and lifting. Canvas deformations were reduced, and structurally weakened areas were stabilized.
Lining and Re-stretching
Due to the mechanical deterioration of the original canvas supports, both paintings were lined with new textile supports using a suitable adhesive system. The treatment provided structural reinforcement, reduced deformations, and improved long-term stability. The paintings were subsequently re-stretched onto cleaned and adjusted stretchers, ensuring uniform canvas tension.
Filling, Retouching, and Final Varnishing
An isolating varnish was applied prior to aesthetic reintegration. Losses in the ground and paint layers were filled and textured to correspond with the surrounding original surfaces. Chromatic reintegration was carried out using stable, reversible retouching materials, respecting the original composition, colour, and painting technique. A final spray-applied varnish was used to harmonize surface gloss, visually integrate retouched areas, and provide a protective coating.
Conservation and Restoration of Decorative Frames
The decorative frames were carefully surface-cleaned to remove accumulated dust, grime, and insect deposits. Loose ornamental elements and unstable surface finishes were consolidated. Damaged and missing decorative elements were locally reconstructed and modelled to match the surviving ornamentation. The reconstructed areas were subsequently finished and toned to integrate visually with the original decorative surfaces.