Restoration of Cityscape Haarlem by Dommersen from 1879

In our gallery, we cherish a deep passion for the romance of the 19th century. Each painting tells its own story. Sometimes that story needs a new chapter. This is true for a special piece in our collection: a cityscape by Cornelius Christian Dommersen from 1879. This beautiful canvas is currently undergoing a careful restoration to then receive a prominent place in the gallery in Gouda.

We find it important to preserve these art treasures for the future. Therefore, this painting is being lovingly and expertly restored. It is a process we are eager to share with you. It shows how history and craftsmanship come together. Soon, this masterpiece will shine again like never before in our gallery in Gouda.

The journey of a painting through time

A painting is a living object that changes over the years. The ravages of time leave traces. Think of dirt, yellowing, and craquelure, those fine cracks in the paint layer. These changes can hide the original colors and details. Therefore, professional restoration is sometimes necessary to return an artwork to its former glory. Our collection of classical art contains several such historical pieces. At Kunst van Roosenburg, we believe that preserving these works is essential. It brings the artist's vision back to life.

The delicate process of cleaning and varnishing

Restoring the Dommersen painting is a precise task. We have enlisted the expertise of Dries van Leeuwen from Gouda Lijsten for this. He begins by carefully cleaning the canvas. Years of accumulated dirt and old, yellowed varnish layers are removed with utmost precision. This is a crucial step.

Once the surface is clean, the original, vibrant colors reappear. Then Dries applies a new, protective varnish layer. This not only protects the paint but also intensifies the color depth. The result is a fresh and bright appearance, just as Dommersen once intended.

A new frame for an old master

The frame of a painting is more than just a border. It is an essential part of the presentation. A good frame enhances the artwork and matches the period in which it was created. For Dommersen's work, a new, suitable frame was a must. Choosing the right framing is an art in itself. We pay a lot of attention to this, just as we do with our other objects and artworks.

The finishing touch: craftsmanship meets history

Together with Dries van Leeuwen, we selected a frame that perfectly matches Dommersen's painting. The choice fell on a frame that breathes the atmosphere of the 19th century. The design and finish complement the fine details and romantic style of the cityscape. This creates a harmonious whole.

With the bright colors and the new frame, the artwork is transformed. It is ready to be admired again by art lovers. This process shows our dedication to restoring historical masterpieces to their former glory. Soon, the result will be on display in our gallery.

Experience the magic of the 19th century yourself

The restoration of this Dommersen painting is a beautiful example of our passion. We warmly invite you to come and experience the atmosphere of 19th-century art for yourself. Visit our gallery and studio in the historic heart of Gouda.