Appearance-based evaluation of varnish removal methods in gilded surfaces

Abstract This paper outlines the use of bidirectional reflectance measurements for characterisation and evaluation appearance changes in gilded surfaces caused by varnishing cleaning. Oil water gilding mock-ups representative a 15th-century panel painting were varnished, selection four varnish removal methods was applied. By measuring samples, their modelled evaluated according to perceptual gloss attributes. Three main groups found each type: unvarnished, varnished cleaned surfaces. Finally, studied most appropriate method removing dammar colophony from surface, terms change, is solubilisation applying an Evolon®CR compress.