One of my final year BA (Hons) Conservation projects, has been the conservation of a crucifix in the High Baroque style. It was presented to St Paul's cathedral in 1958 by President Heuss on behalf of the former Federal Republic of Germany. 

The object consists of an ivory figure of Christ set against radiating rays held by a polychromed twirling single stem. The whole structure is supported by a gilded tripod decorated with carvings of acanthus leaves and cherub's heads. Care was taken in the cleaning of the fragile gold leaf and in the consolidation of areas of exposed gesso. Re-carving of an acanthus leaf in wood was also undertaken. Proposals are underway for the Crucifix to be re-installed in the Lady Chapel at St Paul's.

The second object conserved was a 17th Century frame from the Royal Academy. Here the frame showed damage to its carved bead & reel ornament, while parts of the gilded sgraffito details were also missing. Traditional techniques were researched in order to accurately understand and restore this item of historical value.

The third piece to be undertaken was a Terracotta Medallion for the National Trust. Both wet and dry cleaning, along with filling and retouching methods learnt on the course, were used to treat the object.

My research paper compared the qualities of Paraloid B-72 and three acrylic dispersions. Experiments included tensile stress, impact strength and hardness. Surprising results instilled in me the importance of thorough testing.

With a graphic design and photography background, I have been able to help in the documentation process of projects while on museum internships.

I am interested in all Conservation techniques and approaches in both the public and private sectors.