A. That depends greatly! Most work is based on an hourly charge, and no conservator would give any sort of estimate without examining the piece first. Damage is not always as straight forward as you may think, and the restoration is even less so. If you're not nearby, you can email photos, descriptions and measurements which document the troubled areas and/or the whole piece, and we can start there and perhaps ballpark it. 
But firm estimates cannot be made until the piece is tested and examined personally.

Q. Will restoration devalue my piece?

A. The damage that has occurred, causing you to seek restoration has already devalued it. Professional, conservation and restoration will only help to bring it back closer to its original condition, therefore maintaining its value.

Q. Is it worth restoring?

A. That's a tricky question. As conservators, it is a bit of a conflict of interest to offer an opinion of value. That's generally a question you have to answer for yourself. However, we do realize that often the cost of restoration exceeds the monetary value of it, or at least what was paid for it. Remember the value has no bearing on the cost of restoring it -- it's based on an hourly rate or a formula for the procedures required.

Q. What is the value of my painting?

A. As above, we can't answer that. But we do offer an independent appraisal service. Written appraisals are done by local appraisers, experts in their specific areas, and generally cost $150-200 per item, though some may cost more.

Q. How long will the restoration last?

A. Of course it depends upon what specifically you are talking about, but generally speaking, it should last a hundred years or more if properly stored and taken care of. 

Q. Can anyone have something restored?

A. Sure! Anything that is loved or appreciated can be restored, regardless of the value or owner.

conserveer@xs4all.nl