RESTORATION-CONSERVATION

A Miniature is one of the most fragile works of art.  
To ensure a proper preservation for the coming centuries, the miniatures which require it, are in the care of Bernd Pappe, art historian, conservator HES diploma, collections conservator at the Louvre, the Musée Condé, Tansey foundation, Napoleon foundation etc... And author of numerous books.
In addition to a complete dusting, with removal of any existing  mold,  
Bernd Pappe may have to do the following:

-Some of the glass protecting the thumbnails secrete, after a century, acid droplets threatening the work, they are called "weeping glass": they must be changed. They will then be replaced with an identical glass made by the last glass "bombeur" in France.  
- cards on which the artist would sometimes stick thin miniature, make, with the centuries, thumbnails curve and threaten to break them : if necessary, they are separated from  portrait to release any tensile stress to portrait.
-The straw-silver may oxidize and turn miniature brown irreparably: this is replaced by an acid-free white paper.  
-There are miniatures which have been defaced. When they are annoying you can consider refinishing. This alteration is reversible, that is to say, made with colors which are not soluble in water, but solvents.  
-Finally, to avoid any intrusion of dust, the works are "Baudruchées" with the glasses. 

 
All this work of extreme delicacy can only be made by a specialist, but it is our responsibility, for all of us collectors, not to neglect it if we want to save, maintain and offer future generations these masterpieces intact and in good condition.  
The conservation state of the miniature in this Gallery is carefully described; the work is sold in its original state if the state permits it, or cleansed by Bernd Pappe if needed.  
Upon request, a miniature sold in its original condition can be renovated, after purchase, at additional cost.    

The exhibition of a miniatures collection, even if it mainly involves personal taste, must also meet strict rules:

No bright light, no excessive heat or drought . Over exposure to strong light (sunlight, spotlight....) fade colors with fragile pigments.  
- A miniature-cabinet should be kept in the dark.  
- A wall adorned with miniatures should be protected by a curtain which you can open to admire the works.  
- A cabinet for medals is ideal because the miniature is not a decorative item, but an intimate work of art: it requires the collector to go to her.