Museum-quality restoration and conservation of paintings, sculptures, and fine art using traditional techniques and modern technology
From minor cleaning to major restoration, we preserve and restore fine art using museum-quality techniques that protect artistic integrity while bringing works back to their original beauty.
Following museum standards with reversible techniques that preserve original artwork
Advanced examination techniques to understand materials and guide restoration
Master-level conservators trained in traditional and modern restoration techniques
Detailed condition reports and photographic documentation of all work performed
We specialize in various art forms and mediums, providing appropriate conservation treatments for each unique piece.
Every art restoration project follows a meticulous process that respects the original work while addressing conservation needs.
Comprehensive examination using visual inspection, UV light, and infrared imaging to understand the artwork's condition and history.
Stabilization and cleaning using appropriate conservation-grade materials and reversible techniques.
Careful restoration of losses and damages using reversible materials that can be distinguished from original work.
Application of protective coatings and comprehensive documentation for future reference and insurance purposes.
Browse examples of our conservation and restoration work across various mediums and artistic periods.
19th century restoration
Patina restoration
Paper conservation
Tear restoration
Gold leaf restoration
Mixed media conservation
Surface cleaning
Large-scale restoration
Whether it's a family heirloom or a valuable collection piece, we provide museum-quality restoration that preserves artistic integrity while bringing your artwork back to life.
Free consultations • Insurance claims accepted • Museum references available
We bring museum-quality conservation standards to every artwork we restore.
Following international conservation ethics and best practices used by major museums worldwide.
Our team includes professionally trained conservators with advanced degrees in art conservation.
Using advanced analysis techniques including UV, IR, and microscopy for informed treatment decisions.
Comprehensive photographic and written documentation for insurance and provenance purposes.
Full insurance coverage for artworks in our care, with fine arts policies and secure facilities.
All treatments are reversible, allowing future conservators to retreat if needed without damage.
Find answers to common questions about art restoration and conservation.
Conservation focuses on preserving the artwork in its current state and preventing future deterioration through stabilization and protective measures. Restoration goes further by attempting to return the artwork closer to its original appearance through careful treatment of damages and losses. At Colonial Restoration Studio, we practice "conservation first" - stabilizing the artwork before any aesthetic improvements, and all restoration work is reversible and distinguishable from the original when examined closely.
Art restoration costs vary widely depending on the size, condition, medium, and treatment required. Simple cleaning of a small painting might start at $300-500, while complex restoration of a large oil painting could range from $2,000-10,000 or more. Sculpture and specialty items are quoted individually. We provide free assessments and detailed written estimates before any work begins. Our estimates break down costs by treatment type, and we can often phase work to accommodate budgets.
Professional conservation typically maintains or increases an artwork's value by stabilizing its condition and improving its appearance. Poor restoration, however, can decrease value significantly. Our museum-quality methods ensure that all work is reversible and properly documented, which is essential for maintaining value. We provide detailed condition reports and photographic documentation that can be used for insurance valuations and future sales. Many insurance companies actually require professional conservation to maintain coverage.
Timeline depends on the complexity of treatment and our current schedule. Simple cleaning might take 2-3 weeks, while major restoration can require 2-6 months. Many treatments require drying time between steps that cannot be rushed. We provide estimated timelines during assessment and keep clients updated throughout the process. Rush service is sometimes available for an additional fee, though some conservation processes simply cannot be accelerated without compromising quality.
Get your free conservation assessment from our art restoration experts. We provide museum-quality care for paintings, sculptures, and fine art of all kinds.
Serving Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC • Family owned since 1984