As part of our collections care programme, several paintings have been conserved to make sure they are in the best possible condition for when they go back on display in the refurbished museum.
This painting has been on display in the museum’s main staircase since it opened its doors in 1975.
Once taken down and examined closely, the condition of the lining was confirmed as very poor, and it became necessary to de-line the painting and reline to address any structural issues.
The front and the back of the painting and the stretcher were cleaned with dry brush and vacuum extraction at source.
The front of the painting was further cleaned with a mild water-based solution. The degraded varnish overpainting was removed using a chemical solution applied with cotton swabs.
Some failing/loose previous fills were carefully removed with a scalpel.
The old wax lining was gently heated to soften the wax, carefully peeled back and any remaining wax residue removed.
The canvas was flattened on a low suction table and a new cotton duck lining adhered using a conservation grade adhesive.
Retouching of filled areas and any other minor losses followed.
The frame was dry cleaned using a soft brush and vacuum extraction.
Calm on the Humber by Henry Redmore will go back on display in the refurbished museum.
