Still Life – Bartolomeo Cavarozzi

This work by Bartolomeo Cavarozzi, executed in oil on copper, presented a structurally stable support in overall good condition, with no visible distortions or deformations. The painted surface showed evidence of natural ageing and past interventions. Areas of abrasion—particularly in the lower section—were identified, alongside historic overpainting that partially obscured the original composition. Minor paint losses were present across the surface, while residues from previous varnish removal and accumulated dirt reduced the clarity of the image. The varnish layer had significantly altered over time, becoming yellowed and uneven due to oxidation. This resulted in muted tones and limited visibility of the artist’s original brushwork, with surface inconsistencies further affecting the overall balance of the painting. The conservation process began with full photographic documentation, ensuring each stage of the intervention was carefully recorded. Cleaning was carried out using a combination of chemical and mechanical methods, precisely calibrated to remove aged varnish and surface impurities while preserving the integrity of the original material. Areas of paint loss were stabilised and filled to reintegrate the surface, followed by careful retouching to restore visual continuity. A final protective varnish layer was applied to unify the surface, enhance tonal depth, and safeguard the work against environmental impact. All materials and techniques used in the treatment are fully reversible, ensuring the long-term preservation of the artwork without compromising its original substance. The painting is now presented in a stable and balanced state of conservation, allowing a clearer appreciation of Cavarozzi’s composition and palette.

Each restoration is guided by three principles: Respect for the original material, reversibility of all interventions, and clarity of the artist’s intent. At Colnaghi, conservation is not only a technical process but a scholarly one—aimed at preserving both the physical integrity and the historical meaning of each work.