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DEPARTMENTS
 
 

PHOTO CONSERVATION

The Photography Departments can assist with 19th-21st century works including antique, sepia, black and white, hand colored, color, and contemporary photographic prints. This department also specializes in the digital reproduction of delicate works so originals can be stored to avoid further unnecessary deterioration.

 

"My husband's diploma arrived and it is simply beautiful! The packaging was excellent and the quality and craftsmanship are outstanding. I could not be more pleased with the work you and your colleagues did for me. Thank you again for allowing me to restore something that is priceless to my husband. I know he will be thrilled. Please know that I will keep you and your amazing team in mind the next time I need expert restoration help. Gratefully, Pat Gravenor"


Treatment Examples:

Pretreatment: Black and white hand colored photograph with acidic mount, scattered surface abrasion and losses throughout. Post treament: Photograph digitally restored. Rollover image to see restoration results.


Pre-treatment (left): Due to age-related damage a general discoloration of the emulsion layer occurred. In treatment the image was digitally scanned at high resolution and digitally retouched to correct the visual inconsistencies (right).





The family portrait experienced moderate to severe fire damage. The frame, mat, mount and glazing were considered a loss.

When disassembled, a part of the photograph had adhered to the large glass shard.


Through digital reproduction the damage was repaired.




This photograph was found in a basement after experiencing significant water damage. In the image on the left, you can see the extreme mold damage to the bottom right corner. In treatment the photograph was digitally reconstructed to repair areas (right).



Pre-treatment (left): The photograph had adhered to the glass resulting in numerous losses and tears. There was moderate mold staining as well. The photograph was cleaned and digitally reconstructed to repair damage (right).





Before: Due to the nature of the damage this piece was considered a loss.


After: Digital reproduction was the only option for repair.

 



Before and After: Hand-painted photograph

 


More Treatment Examples:

 

 

 

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The Chicago Conservation Center
730 N. Franklin Street, Suite 701
Chicago, IL. 60654

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