Polychrome literally means multi-coloured, and derives from the Greek words 'poly' (many) and 'chromos' (colour). The polychromy of wooden sculptures relies on much the same techniques as panel paintings, therefore their conservation issues are often very similar to problems encountered with panel paintings. Over centuries many wooden polychrome sculptures fell victim to unprofessional treatments such as primitive repairs, alterations, over-painting, over-gilding  or were simply stripped of their decoration to reveal the bare wood. Polychrome sculptures, in addition to paint,  very often contain gilding. Such complex, multilayered surfaces are extremely delicate and sensitive to many of the cleaning agents, therefore prior to any conservation treatment a comprehensive technical examination of wooden material, paint and gilded surfaces is necessary. 

My expertise in polychrome sculpture conservation includes:

• Consolidation of the flaking gesso and gilding
• Structural reinforcement
• Surface cleaning and removal of later renovations 
• Replicating missing sections 
• Gilding, toning techniques and in-painting