I love to get a commission to restore a painting on panel. The history of painting on wooden panels is as rich and storied as the art it supports. Used by European artists for centuries, panels have been made from various woods. There are several problems that arise over time for paintings on this type of support, and as an art conservator I have faced most of them. In this post, I am going to outline some of the most common issues that are likely to compel a client to seek out an art conservator.
The History of Painting on Panels
As an art conservator, I can expect to encounter panel paintings from a wide span of centuries and from a wide geographical area.
The origins of painting on panels can be traced back to ancient civilizations where artists utilised wood as a readily available canvas. From the ancient Egyptians painting on wooden coffins to the Greeks adorning their temples with wooden panels, this early practice set the stage for a tradition that would span centuries.
In the Byzantine era (330–1453 AD), wooden panels emerged as a favored medium for religious art. Iconography became a central component of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, with artists using wooden panels to create intricate and spiritually significant images. The luminosity of gold leaf embellishments on these panels added a divine quality to the artwork.
The Renaissance marked a pivotal moment in the history of painting on panels. Artists like Giotto, Fra Angelico, and Sandro Botticelli, among others, utilized wood panels to create masterpieces that defined the era. The smooth, rigid surface of the wood allowed for meticulous detailing and the application of rich, vibrant pigments. The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci and The Last Supper by Andrea del Castagno are iconic examples of the era’s panel painting mastery. In Northern Europe, artists such as Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden continued the tradition of painting on panels. The Flemish Primitives, as they were known, achieved unparalleled realism and precision in their works, exploring the interplay of light and shadow on the wooden surface.
In the 20th and 21st centuries, artists have revisited the use of wooden panels, exploring the marriage of traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. The revival of panel painting reflects a desire to connect with artistic heritage while pushing the boundaries of creative expression.
Softwood vs. Hardwood: A Geographical Clue
It is crucial to me to understand the nuances of wood when I approach the conservation needs of a panel painting that has been brought to my studio. Softwoods, derived from coniferous trees, were commonly used in Northern Europe due to their abundance. Hardwoods, on the other hand, were more prevalent in Southern Europe and Asia. The geographical and historical context of wood usage played a significant role in determining the type of wood chosen for a painting. And the choice of wood plays a significant role in determining how the panel painting ages over time.
The effects of time on a panel painting are myriad and no two commissions will ever present identically. However, there are some common themes that I will usually have to address in the conservation of a wooden panel.
Reactions to Climate Conditions
Wood is a dynamic material that reacts to environmental conditions. Extreme heat, cold, and dampness can significantly impact panel paintings, and cause damage that an art conservator will need to treat. The expansion and contraction of wood fibres in response to temperature and humidity changes may lead to cracking, warping, and the cleavage of the picture layer.
Fungus
The presence of fungi on wooden panels is a common concern in conservation. Fungi thrive in damp conditions, and if left unchecked, they can compromise the structural integrity of the wood, leading to irreversible damage.
Beetles
Several types of beetles pose threats to panel paintings. The house long-horn beetle, woodworm, and powder post beetle are notorious for burrowing into wood, causing extensive damage over time. You won’t need an art conservator to identify an infestation as these pests leave tiny holes and staining excrement in their wake. However, you will need an art conservator to deal with the problem: proper pest control measures are essential to protect these valuable artworks.
Cracking, Cleavage, and Warping
Cracking is a natural consequence of the aging process, especially in response to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Cleavage occurs when the layers of paint and wood separate, creating a visible gap. Warping, a distortion of the panel’s shape, can result from uneven drying or exposure to moisture. The damage caused is often unsightly and can threaten the integrity of a panel painting so I would recommend you seek an art conservator if you see signs of cracking or warping.
Damaged Supports and Opening of Glue Joints
Over time, the wooden supports of a panel may degrade, compromising the painting’s stability. Additionally, the opening of old glue joints can further exacerbate structural issues. You might not be able to identify these issues on your own so you would need to come to me or another trained art conservator to get a proper examination and to make sure that the necessary intervention is carried out to prevent further deterioration.
Previous Restoration Treatments
In some cases, well-intentioned but misguided conservation efforts, such as cradling, can cause more harm than good. Cradling involves adding a support structure to the back of a panel to prevent warping. However, this technique can lead to irreversible damage, including stress cracks and a loss of original flexibility. I see the effects of cradling all too often when clients bring damaged panels to my conservation studio.
In conclusion, the conservation of panel paintings requires a delicate balance of artistry and science. Understanding the history, materials, and potential threats to these artworks is essential in ensuring they continue to captivate audiences for generations to come. Conservationists play a crucial role in preserving the stories embedded in these panels, allowing us to connect with the past through the enduring beauty of art.
The challenges for an art conservator facing a damaged panel painting are some of the most difficult and rewarding. To ensure that your panel survives to give pleasure to future generations, make sure that it has been professionally assessed so that any historical damage can be contained and advice offered for its preservation.