Cupid – Conservation

Originally attributed to the C17th artist Mario di Fiore (1603-1673), this painting had not been seen for decades. Artist Sophy Rickett became interested in the thick layer of dirt that covered the painting like a veil.
As part of her exhibition, Cupid and the Curious Moaning of Kenfig Burrows, and in dialogue with Jenny Williamson our Conservation Officer, Sophy requested that a small section of the painting be cleaned to partially remove a layer of the dirt and reveal a section of the sleeping cupid.
This time-lapse footage shows Jenny cleaning a small portion of the painting for display. This a radical departure from the normal protocols of conservation technique.

YouTube