The restoration of icons has some peculiarities requiring a specialist who understands the icon's unique structure.
Because icons are traditionally painted on a wooden surface, using paints based on organic compounds, they are often susceptible to damage by micro-organisms. Mould, fungi, bacteria and insects - are all merciless enemies of icons. In addition, many icons have suffered from careless and improper storage, exposure to excessive humidity, candle and lamp soot, sharp temperature fluctuations, and various forms of mechanical damage. An icons protective varnish darkens and loses its transparency over time, and eventually has to be removed and replaced. Finally, over their lifetime, many icons have been subjected to non-professional restoration with the main purpose of enhancing their appearance and marketability without any attempt to preserve their original appearance or historical value.
But there is always hope and professional help. Even icons which at first glance might seem to be irreparably damaged could be salvaged by our experienced restorers and revived to their original lustre.
"All-Seeing Eye of God"
"The Virgin of Passion"
