Academic thesis
Zaozao Yang: | Examination and conservation-restoration of a painting with flocking technique and sprinkled metal particles application: Equestrian portrait of Emperor Leopold I, 234.5 x 172 cm, 2nd half of the 17th century, Feistritz Castle, Lower Austria | Back |
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Abstract: | The equestrian portrait of Leopold I. from the private collection in Burg Feistritz, Lower Austria, is an excellent example of one of the few surviving easel paintings from the late 17th century that showcases the flocking technique. The entire paint surface was decorated with finely sheared and dyed animal fibres to imitate a surface texture close to that of a tapestry. On top of this, various metal particles were sprinkled and imbedded in the paint layer to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the subject matter. The painting exhibits extensive damage to the paint layer and the flocking material. While the later suffers from loss and considerable oxidative discoloration, the paint layer is structurally weakened in areas exposed to bat droppings in the past. The resulting paint loss has significantly impaired the legibility and integrity of the painting as a whole and the work can no longer be deemed presentable. Within the framework of this thesis, comprehensive examination and conservation-restoration were carried out. Results from scientific analysis (paint cross-sections, fibre analysis, SEM/EDX, FTIR, XRF) provided valuable information on the materials used – especially pertaining to the flocking-technique – and their subsequent degradation. Parallels could be drawn between historical sources and the execution of the artwork, enabling a more extensive understanding of the techniques and placing of the painting in a broader context. Meanwhile the conservation-restoration focused primarily on preserving the current condition and restoring the aesthetic integrity by integrating areas of paint loss. After numerous testing, the fragile paint layer was consolidated in a way that did not negatively impact the flocking. Aesthetic and ethical requirements of the appropriate materials and methods of retouching were discussed; after testing in sample areas, the retouching was carried out on the entire work. |
Keywords: | Leopold I., Burg Feistritz, canvas painting, flocking, metal particles, surface cleaning, consolidation, retouching |
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