When our conservation tools and equipment leave our workshops, that’s usually the last we see of them, but sometimes we’re lucky enough to spot them in action on blogs and social media, and more recently, the telly! Take a look below at some recent sightings…
Who else thoroughly enjoyed the new series of Secrets of the Museum on BBC 2 over the summer? As arguably one of the best museums in the world, watching the conservators in action at the V&A was a real treat. And how can it get better? Seeing Willard tools and equipment in action!
Image credit: BBC/V&A
One of our valued customers, conservator Sophie Reddington (pictured above, right) was featured alongside one of our Heated Spatulas and Control Units for use on one of the longest artworks ever displayed at the V&A, ‘Interior of Dome of the Masjid-E Sayyid’, 1877 for ‘The Art of Iran exhibition’. We also spotted a large Willard table in the background.
In the same episode, we also saw the V&A acquire the famous waiter costume of Manuel, played by Andrew Sachs from the classic British sitcom, Faulty Towers. Textile Conservator, Nora Brockmann was given the task of washing the costume while making sure not to wash out the tell-tale soup stain. To carry out this special task, Nora used Willard’s washing table with tilting top. We were pleased to see she succeeded in the task and the costume is now on display at the museum.
Image credit: BBC/V&A
Did you spot any more Willard Tools or Equipment in the series? Let us know!
Here are a couple of social posts from our customers showcasing their own Willard tools in action which we love seeing. Keep them coming and don’t forget to tag us in your posts!
Image credit: @buitenplaatstrompenburgh @Monumentenbezit
The restorers are currently busy uncovering seventeenth-century paintings on the ceiling of the vestibule. When Cornelis Tromp had the country estate built, he had it elaborately decorated. Over time, several painted decorations have been painted over. Fortunately, the overpaints can be removed again. Under the many layers of paint, the most diverse birds and spectacular cloudy skies emerge.
The conservators have been using Willard Hot Air Pens which are now on their way back to us for a well earned service.
Image credit: @jn_conservation
Tool of the week: Willard heated suction platform.
Olympia is treating lifting paint and cracks in the centre of a large contemporary African painting. This tool allows us to keep the paint flakes in place and gently warms the area while we introduce adhesive and secure the paint.
@jn_conservation also said of the tools: “Willard tools are definitely an investment but nothing beats them for engineering and durability…took a long tome to work up to buying this but it’s so useful for big paintings.”
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Image credit: @artcareconservation
Dropping in on your #monday with some #willardtools These irons specifically designed for use in the conservation, restoration & preservation of works of art and historic cultural media.
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