Restoration, gilding and wood carving
Restoration of polychrome wood and sacred art
Statues, crucifixes, angels, liturgical and decorative objects: I restore works in polychrome and gilded wood with respect for their history. Each intervention begins with a careful examination of the work: wood species, condition of the support, paint layers, gilding, traces of woodworm.
Depending on what is needed, I consolidate the support, re-adhere flaking paint, clean surfaces, treat insect damage, fill losses and carry out pictorial retouching. The materials are compatible with the work and the treatments are reversible, in order to preserve its history and authenticity.
Gold leaf gilding
I gild and restore antique gilding on statues, altarpieces, frames, mirrors and decorative elements. I use the traditional techniques of water gilding on gesso and Armenian bole, as well as oil gilding, with genuine gold leaf.
Whether it means consolidating flaking gilding, reconstructing missing parts or regilding an element, every intervention respects the original style and materials.
Wood carving and restoration of carved elements
Carving complements my restoration work. I hand-carve missing or broken elements: fingers, hands, halos, angel wings, ornaments, mouldings, respecting the style, proportions and wood species of the original..
I also practise micro-carving: I restore the tiny ornaments of frames and finely carved objects, and I create carved wooden jewellery. I also make sculptures and bespoke pieces.
Antique and painted furniture
A damaged antique piece of furniture is not something to throw away. Chests of drawers, wardrobes, chests and painted Alpine furniture: I restore them with the same methods and the same care as works of art.
I don’t repaint furniture: I preserve it. Consolidating joints, treating woodworm, cleaning, renewing shellac finishes and waxes, restoring original painted decoration. The piece regains its strength and beauty without losing the traces of its history.
How a restoration works
- First contact and initial discussion
- Examination of the work and quotation
- Restoration using the appropriate techniques
- Final check and return of the work
I welcome small objects in my workshop in Lavaux. Larger works are restored on site, in churches and chapels as well as at collectors’ and private homes. I travel throughout French-speaking Switzerland to examine works: contact me for an initial estimate.