Swarovski International Crystal Repair
Cleaning and Oil Treatment The entire display was carefully prepped and cleaned to remove surface dust and debris using soft brushes and non-abrasive cloths. Seed oil was applied to nourish and rehydrate the wood, with a two-day resting period to ensure full absorption and prevent surface tackiness. Frame and Glass Restoration The top of the frame was dismantled and all residual glue removed for a secure, stable reassembly. A custom 1,5mm Plexiglas panel was fabricated and installed at the rear of the frame to protect the Chinese calligraphy. The original 2mm glass was retained at the front, as only 3mm replacements are available, and would not fit the frame opening. Structural and Aesthetic Woodwork New balsa wood inserts (x2)) was cut and fitted to the upper frame area, compensating for any loss of original wood. and custom balsa wedge was crafted for extra support on the back of the frame., balsa wood was selected due to its lightweight strength and compatibility with the existing structure. Once assembled, the ill-fitting top corners and joints were filled, sanded, and colour -matched with stain and paint to blend. A matte finish was applied to the frame only to unify the appearance. A small post was made to match the 3 remaining corner posts. Metalwork and Surface Finishing Decorative metal accents were cleaned with solvents safe for their finish, ensuring the metalremained untouched and avoiding any abrasive or corrosive substances. A matte protective sealer was applied to both the frame and the metal elements to prevent future oxidation and preserve the aesthetic integrity in varying climates. Consolidation and Bonding All original joints and structural components were checked and, wherever necessary, strengthened with conservation-grade adhesive. Remaining areas were reinforced to ensure stability, retaining as much original material as possible in keeping with conservation principles. Final Notes and Repair Considerations Maintaining the original glass is highly preferred for antique objects; therefore, replacement occurred only where absolutely necessary. All restoration work used subtle colour-matching and reversible fillers and adhesives, typical of professional museum and gallery standards. The use of matte sealer assists in protecting metal decorations from future tarnishing. Additional parts enclosed: One 10cm round, to serve as a replacement in the event of a dowel breakage. The frame holder was not glued (on purpose) to the supporting body, for easier future packing and transport. Note: This repair method preserves the display's structural integrity and aesthetic value, while respecting traditional construction techniques found in Chinese decorative arts.
Crystal Repair- Chinese restoration Crystal Repair- Chinese restoration
Swarovski International Crystal Repair
Cleaning and Oil Treatment The entire display was carefully prepped and cleaned to remove surface dust and debris using soft brushes and non-abrasive cloths. Seed oil was applied to nourish and rehydrate the wood, with a two-day resting period to ensure full absorption and prevent surface tackiness. Frame and Glass Restoration The top of the frame was dismantled and all residual glue removed for a secure, stable reassembly. A custom 1,5mm Plexiglas panel was fabricated and installed at the rear of the frame to protect the Chinese calligraphy. The original 2mm glass was retained at the front, as only 3mm replacements are available, and would not fit the frame opening. Structural and Aesthetic Woodwork New balsa wood inserts (x2)) was cut and fitted to the upper frame area, compensating for any loss of original wood. and custom balsa wedge was crafted for extra support on the back of the frame., balsa wood was selected due to its lightweight strength and compatibility with the existing structure. Once assembled, the ill-fitting top corners and joints were filled, sanded, and colour -matched with stain and paint to blend. A matte finish was applied to the frame only to unify the appearance. A small post was made to match the 3 remaining corner posts. Metalwork and Surface Finishing Decorative metal accents were cleaned with solvents safe for their finish, ensuring the metal remained untouched and avoiding any abrasive or corrosive substances. A matte protective sealer was applied to both the frame and the metal elements to prevent future oxidation and preserve the aesthetic integrity in varying climates. Consolidation and Bonding All original joints and structural components were checked and, wherever necessary, strengthened with conservation-grade adhesive. Remaining areas were reinforced to ensure stability, retaining as much original material as possible in keeping with conservation principles. Final Notes and Repair Considerations Maintaining the original glass is highly preferred for antique objects; therefore, replacement occurred only where absolutely necessary. All restoration work used subtle colour-matching and reversible fillers and adhesives, typical of professional museum and gallery standards. The use of matte sealer assists in protecting metal decorations from future tarnishing. Additional parts enclosed: One 10cm round, to serve as a replacement in the event of a dowel breakage. The frame holder was not glued (on purpose) to the supporting body, for easier future packing and transport. Note: This repair method preserves the display's structural integrity and aesthetic value, while respecting traditional construction techniques found in Chinese decorative arts.
Crystal Repair - Chinese art restoration Crystal Repair- Chinese restoration