Tailoring Cleaning Systems for the Removal of Bronze Paint and Soiling From a J.M.W. Turner Gilded Frame

ABSTRACT This paper presents practice-based research designed to support the development and optimization of a successful cleaning methodology for an oil gilded J. M. W. Turner (1755–1851) frame in Tate's collection. The 3-dimensional ornate nature of this object posed additional challenges with respect to the development of a cleaning strategy, as the handling of gels on topographically complex gilded surfaces can be particularly problematic. Within a limited timeframe and without the use of sophisticated equipment, a comparative evaluation of a range of cleaning systems was designed to assess the efficacy of the removal of heavy soiling and bronze overpaint from this complex oil-gilt frame. This evaluation methodology entailed three different stages to better compare and select a suitable cleaning system. Free solvents, gels, and various emulsifiers were evaluated through empirical observation and documented using star diagrams (Excel radar charts), ultraviolet light, microscopy, and cross-section examination. The results indicated that hydrolyzed poly(vinyl acetate)-borate gels and modified silicone-based emulsions successfully removed the soiling and bronze overpaint while posing minimal risk to the oil gilded surface.