Restoration | Etnicea

Digital Restoration

Artwork restoration comes in two main forms: physical restoration of the original painting and digital restoration.

Digital restoration utilizes programs like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Lightroom, replacing traditional brushes and varnishes. Alongside other upscaling software, these tools breathe new life into classic artworks. Once digitally restored, the artwork is printed on high-quality fine art paper, making it accessible to a broader audience.

The process of digitally restoring old artworks encompasses a variety of mediums, from etchings and monographs to engravings and prints. The ultimate goal is to restore them to their original appearance by removing dust layers, enhancing contrast, adjusting light exposure, and repairing any damage. This restoration process serves two primary objectives: preserving the historical significance of the artwork and making it accessible for everyone to own and appreciate.

In the following gallery you can see the difference between the original work that is generally available on the Rijksstudio, Library of Congress Databank or the British Digital Library.

Personally, restoration is a satisfying process. To re-create and see the original artwork in its brightness and color vibrancy and then to later print it on fine-art cotton paper,

The roots of art restoration can be traced back to the Renaissance, a period that celebrated the revival of classical art and knowledge. During this time, artists and collectors began recognizing the value of preserving and restoring ancient artworks. The renewal of interest in classical aesthetics spurred efforts to recover and conserve deteriorating pieces.

The Enlightenment period in the 18th century brought a scientific approach to art restoration. Scholars and restorers sought to apply systematic methods to preserve artworks, emphasizing the importance of research and documentation. This era marked a shift toward a more analytical and methodical approach to restoration.

In the 19th century, conservation ethics began to take shape. Cesare Brandi, an Italian art historian, played a crucial role in defining principles for art restoration. His 1963 book, "Theory of Restoration," outlined key concepts, including the idea that a restorer should not impose their own artistic vision on a work but rather reveal its original form.

The 20th century saw the establishment of international standards and organizations dedicated to art conservation. The International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC), founded in 1950, has been instrumental in developing ethical guidelines and promoting the exchange of knowledge among conservation professionals.

And finally. In present times. The advent of digital technology in the late 20th century revolutionized the field of art restoration. Digital tools and imaging techniques allowed restorers to undertake more precise and non-invasive restoration processes. This technological leap opened up new possibilities for restoring and preserving artworks. And Etnicea is set to continue this pathway of restoration. Perhaps even adding new methods and approaches to this particular work.