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Oil Painting Conservation
Technique
The KIAN Foundation recently carried out the conservation of a rare mixed media work by artist Murli Lahoti. Executed on jute with silica and calcium-based materials, the artwork had developed significant calcium deposits on the reverse, which led to the complete charring of the paper backing over time due to chemical reactions and aging. The conservation team carefully removed layers of soot and dust, stabilized the fragile surface, and addressed severe cracking and flaking of the paint layer. A new, compatible backing support was introduced to reinforce the structural integrity of the work, ensuring its preservation for the future while respecting the artist’s original materials and intent.
This oil on canvas work by celebrated Indian painter Madhuri Bhaduri arrived bearing the marks of time, coated in layers of dust, scattered with insect excreta, rust-stained edges, a pen mark on the reverse, and traces of wall paint likely from poor storage. The canvas had begun to loosen from its stretcher, showing signs of structural vulnerability.
The conservation journey began with meticulous dry brushing to lift surface dust, followed by a careful disinfection of the wooden frame and removal of rust residues. The prominent pen mark on the back of the canvas was delicately erased without disturbing the integrity of the fabric. Two rounds of deep cleaning using 100% olive oil soap and distilled water dissolved embedded grime and revived the rich, original colours of the painting. Paint splatters and biological contaminants were fully removed, revealing the artwork's true vibrancy beneath the wear.