Condition Checks
Comprehensive reports on the condition of an object or collection.
Condition checks detail if an object is safe to be transported, if treatment or preventative measures are needed to counteract deterioration, if there are risks inherent to the object, and other information.
Documentation
Extensive documentation of condition, treatment, and preventative conservation.
All aspects of a treatment will be documented with professional skill. Clients can expect clear photography and expertly made graphics.
Cleaning
Cleaning of surface dirt, staining, past restorations, and other materials.
Using the most current scientifically based knowledge, the removal of dirt from an object is done without damaging the original material.
Filling
Creating fills for objects which help their stability and readability.
Fills can help stabilise an object which is not complete. It can also aid the aesthetics of the object if it matches the original material.
Adhering
Adhering pieces of an object together with professional grade adhesive.
Ceramics and glass are fragile materials, and can break into multiple fragments easily. Costello Conservation uses the most recent advances in conservation adhesives to ensure pieces are stuck together best.
Retouching
Retouching fills to fully integrate the conservation treatment into the object.
Retouching, the act of colouring a fill to better match the surrounding material, can make fills less obtrusive, and complete the look of a conservation treatment.
Process of Projects
Consultation
Consultation to assess the object and discuss expectations.
Quotation & Agreement
You will be sent a quotation to sign to agree on the amount of hours and rate.
Carrying Out Project
The services will then be carried out, with communication about its progress.
Delivery / Pick Up
Once the project if done delivery or pick up of the results will be organised.
Invoice
Finally an invoice will be sent to be paid within a set amount of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find your question below feel free to contact me, and I’ll be happy to help.
How long does a treatment take?
The length of the treatment depends on its complexity. It is always the goal to complete the treatment as efficiently as possible while still maintaining care and caution. This will be determined in the Agreement.
Will the object look like new?
No matter what, there will always be evidence that the object has been conserved, and that’s a good thing! It means that my treatment follows the ethical guidelines for conservation. Before each treatment we will determine what the goal for the final look will be.
What is included in the rate?
The rate includes the cost of labour and materials, unless a specialised material is needed, however that will be agreed upon prior to the treatment. The BTW rate (21%) is excluded, but will be added to the total.
Why glass and ceramics?
Glass and ceramics are simultaneously very like and very unlike materials. They are both formed from inorganic matter which is then transformed with fire. They require an intimate knowledge of the materials and making processes but both pose their own challenges. They are some of the best surviving pieces from the past but also are the play materials of modern artists.
Do you work on other types of materials?
My training is specifically in glass and ceramics, and I have some experience with plaster. This specific training means I am an expert on these materials. I also feel comfortable working some stones and precious materials. I am always open to discussing treating objects made out of other materials or with other materials in addition to glass and ceramics, and if I am not the right fit for your object, I can refer you to other conservators.
COSTELLO CONSERVATION 