Restoration of antique enamel
Fine enamels have been with us for many centuries, from classical times through to the peak of craftmanship this 19th century French gold brooch represents. Unfortunately time, or an accident can see the delicate picture fragmented.
Restoring antique enamel to the condition shown here requires knowledge of historic skills, along with an ability to match the original artist's talent. That is why restoration of such an item should be carried out by a restorer who is primarily a skilled artist.
This brooch represents the type of work that Keith is renowned for being able to bring back to fine condition, not least because he finds such pleasure in doing so.
Enamels are personal
So many items in enamel hold memories for the owner, or for their family. Another example of antique enamels where restoration deserves care, to preserve the past and the future.
As you may have seen on this site, Keith is known internationally for heraldry work, including careful restoration of antique items, from fine medals, to family mementos. A principle in keeping with the Russian order of Saint George, fit to be worn, or reflect upon.
The characterful enamel bear is as this should be and quite wrong to change that. Enamel conservation is about careful preservation, of the object, the iconography and the spirit. Much the same for the lustrous enamel panels, where the restorer's task is to sympathetically blend in with the old.
A solid base for enamel restoration
Enamel is a beautiful but fragile medium, as breakable as fine glass. All enamel objects are reliant on the base they are set in and that can often need attention itself. The book cover here not a bad example, quite common to see these warped or carrying the bruises that use brings.
That an artist and accomplished enameller is needed remains beyond doubt but there is another skill, the jeweller. As you will see from Keith Seldon's biography his original training and experience as a jeweller fit well with this need. Allowing him to bring together all the aspects that antique enamels need to return to their former glory.
However diverse your restoration needs, or the enamel objects these relate to, Keith will be happy to discuss the best solution. Above all, you can be assured he will care for and about the item you treasure.