Damaged, Icon, Fix It

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  • Опубліковано 27 лис 2024

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  • @BaumgartnerRestoration
    @BaumgartnerRestoration  2 роки тому +2680

    Hi! A few folks below pointed out that during the retouching process I covered up a "W" and "O" (an "N" was totally lost.) This wasn't deliberate and the fact is I totally missed it on the first pass and thought those were losses. The letting was so faint and tiny and not being an expert in icons it wasn't on my radar. That however is no excuse and the icon is on it's way back so that I can correct the issue.
    While 100% perfect 100% of the time is the goal it's simply not realistic and sometimes we're fallible. This is one of the primary reasons I exclusively use archival and reversible materials, from adhesives to varnishes and yes, paints. So that if a correction needs to be made; a slight change in the color, the addition of something that was lost or in this case the removal of retouching over the original is necessary it's quick, safe and easy to do.
    I'll be sure to post a follow up video on this once I receive the icon and talk a bit about the process of removing the varnish and retouching and why I missed it. Spoiler: I'm human and it does happen. 🤷‍♂️

    • @butterbee_bb
      @butterbee_bb 2 роки тому +194

      Great response! ☺️
      Just to make sure, from left to right the letters are omicron, omega, nu (all lower case). The nu is very visible at 15:46 for example.
      Keep up the good work and transparent attitude!

    • @bethbleas8378
      @bethbleas8378 2 роки тому +83

      ...and love your integrity!

    • @renerpho
      @renerpho 2 роки тому +43

      Thank you very much for the comment! I'm looking forward to the second video.

    • @renerpho
      @renerpho 2 роки тому +66

      One thing to add: While I can't tell 100% from the video, I think that a faint cross in the halo may have also been painted over. It would be expected in an icon like this. Please make sure that, by the time you correct the retouching, you know what should be there in the image, and what shouldn't (and if it should be there but isn't, that it is truly an anomaly in the image).

    • @russergee49
      @russergee49 2 роки тому +16

      Thanks Julian! Really appreciate that you’ll be taking care of this icon and making the correction.

  • @4jonah
    @4jonah 2 роки тому +4648

    I need Julian to fix my broken soul and spirit in this manner. "Yes, it looks shattered now, but nothing we can't fix. We will coat him in washicozo and fish gelatin..." These are so soothing

    • @blubbblubb6239
      @blubbblubb6239 2 роки тому +82

      laughing far too hard on that :'D would definitely need that fix as well ;)

    • @Anni_Mau
      @Anni_Mau 2 роки тому +228

      When he discovers you tried stitching your soul and spirit back together yourself using staples...

    • @ShipCreek
      @ShipCreek 2 роки тому +77

      Watch out for the hot table....🤣

    • @kalieris
      @kalieris 2 роки тому +11

      Oh, so much same.

    • @ellasmommy9278
      @ellasmommy9278 2 роки тому +23

      Lol. Can I be next in line?

  • @alexalexiadis
    @alexalexiadis 2 роки тому +1651

    Hello to everyone from Greece!!
    I leave in Greece and I made a little research about this icon!!!I see the Greek letters and this icon is from Serres(Σερρες)a town in north Greece!In this town it appears to call Virgin Mary with this name (ΜΗΡ ΘΟΥ Η ΕΛΕΟΥΣΑ)which it protects pregnant woman from eclampsia!! Julian made a very good job to this Greek Orthodox Icon...also Virgin Mary holds baby Jesus in her arms,the reveal is stunning!

    • @margeryk000
      @margeryk000 2 роки тому +50

      Thanks for the added info!

    • @alexalexiadis
      @alexalexiadis 2 роки тому +14

      @@margeryk000 Thank you!!

    • @feralbluee
      @feralbluee 2 роки тому +35

      thank you so much. i am part Greek and i really wanted to know what the words meant. Alexa from New York :)🇬🇷

    • @alexalexiadis
      @alexalexiadis 2 роки тому +21

      @@feralbluee Hello Alexa!!!Alexandros here from Greece!!
      Την αγάπη μας και τα φιλιά μας από την Ελλάδα!!!
      Αλέξα να είσαι πάντα γερή και δυνατή!!!Σε ευχαριστώ πολύ!!

    • @feralbluee
      @feralbluee 2 роки тому +17

      @@alexalexiadis sweetie, i can’t read Greek! wish i could.
      but i love whatever it is you’re saying. efcharistó :) 🌷🌱🌼

  • @ScottHebertArt
    @ScottHebertArt 2 роки тому +1759

    imagine brining your painting into Julian to get restored and he creates this beautiful video and does great work and then at the end he hits you with the ICON FIX IT pun. >.

    • @caitlinpenny7412
      @caitlinpenny7412 2 роки тому +76

      Well he is a dad so we must permit him a few dad jokes.

    • @Mad9977
      @Mad9977 2 роки тому +5

      😅

    • @katnhat7695
      @katnhat7695 2 роки тому +5

      🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @jimcoope7194
      @jimcoope7194 2 роки тому +30

      We all knew Julian "wood" have to add one or two puns!

    • @firaelle6962
      @firaelle6962 2 роки тому +30

      English isn't my native language, so i stared at your comment for around 4 minutes before getting the joke

  • @olafowl5678
    @olafowl5678 2 роки тому +1558

    It amazes me how Julian uploads rather frequently, especially considering the Huge amount of work he has just from restoring

    • @SoCalCaitlin14
      @SoCalCaitlin14 2 роки тому +10

      Right?!

    • @rubenroxo3827
      @rubenroxo3827 2 роки тому +41

      And the way it's always informative and it feels fresh !

    • @heehoopeanut420
      @heehoopeanut420 2 роки тому +62

      I can't even imagine the planning and scheduling that goes into doing all of these big conservative all while filming them, voicing them over, editing, AND getting the videos out regularly??🤯 idk how he does it all

    • @smey02
      @smey02 2 роки тому +16

      Do you think he is cutting and editing the videos himself? I dont think so....but if yes its actually impressive, and something I would definitely let somebody else do if I was him

    • @daarianaharis
      @daarianaharis 2 роки тому +37

      I get the impression that Julian is a rather pragmatic sort of guy. I'm sure he uploads exactly as much as is practical for him to at least break even on it. With Patreon and sponsorships I'm sure this is not an insignificant part of his income, and I'm happy that he chose this second career avenue.

  • @FoxDusk
    @FoxDusk 2 роки тому +165

    Man, as a fossil preparator, I've found myself thinking back to Julian's techniques that he's accumulated over his career. I've come to realize that some of his cleaning methods also apply to fossil cleaning and repair! I now tend to roll my own cotton swabs and I also have been increasingly using novel methods to reach a finished and cleaned piece. Watching his videos, for me, is both entertainingly soothing and educational! I'm always curious if there's another way I can improve my workmanship on how to more effectively complete projects!

    • @moleperson
      @moleperson Рік тому +4

      That’s amazing!! Really proves how important it is to share techniques that might not otherwise reach public spaces.
      What techniques of his have you found that apply to your work?

  • @TheNinjaKiwi1
    @TheNinjaKiwi1 2 роки тому +546

    Julian, if you ever decide to make a podcast and just read the Dictionary of Conservation I would be a subscriber for life. Your videos are some of the best and most calming videos on the internet, bar none.

    • @kathyjohnson2043
      @kathyjohnson2043 2 роки тому +10

      He did read the conservators code of ethics in one video.

    • @buffystar3
      @buffystar3 2 роки тому

      @@kathyjohnson2043 do you remember which one?

    • @haven.liz16
      @haven.liz16 2 роки тому +3

      I believe it is titled “vows” and depicts a bride in the thumbnail

    • @eli.3082
      @eli.3082 2 роки тому

      Yeahhhhh me tooo

    • @hestergunter3692
      @hestergunter3692 Рік тому

      I find his videos so interesting, but his calm voice makes me so sleepy that I struggle to keep my eyes open 😅

  • @Will_Salcedo
    @Will_Salcedo 2 роки тому +48

    24:27 RIP the O, W, N on the child's halo.

    • @rachellerodney1294
      @rachellerodney1294 Рік тому +2

      I noticed that too☹️

    • @CarrieRay
      @CarrieRay 7 місяців тому +5

      This was a big loss in the restoration of this piece. It belongs in the Christ child’s halo. I am usually impressed with Julian’s work, but he missed this important symbol

    • @hunderslash
      @hunderslash 3 місяці тому +3

      @@CarrieRay he made a followup where he fixed it, which was nice

    • @CarrieRay
      @CarrieRay 3 місяці тому

      @@hunderslash yes! I did see that later and was very glad to see it !

  • @TaraHisakata
    @TaraHisakata 2 роки тому +884

    Julian, do you ever find antiques for your own home and restore them just for you? Do you have any favorite pieces you have collected over the years?

    • @rafaelaschulte4459
      @rafaelaschulte4459 2 роки тому +92

      I would watch awhole video about this topic! GREAT idea!!!!!

    • @alexalexiadis
      @alexalexiadis 2 роки тому +8

      He is to busy….he has not time to answer!!!LOL

    • @kathyjohnson2043
      @kathyjohnson2043 2 роки тому +31

      He did comment once that, if I remember correctly, he had some paintings in his home that were done by friends.

    • @stephenvale2624
      @stephenvale2624 2 роки тому +46

      My guess it would be like the cobblers children and shoes situation. When you perform this level of highly skilled work, the last thing you would want, would be to stare at your own work in your home and think about spots you might have missed or want to do over.

    • @art_see_shan1849
      @art_see_shan1849 2 роки тому +7

      Great Question

  • @peterbockholm3176
    @peterbockholm3176 2 роки тому +413

    I lived in a monastery for some years and saw many icons in this condition. I always looked at them trying to imagine what they would look like if they were clean. It's inevitable that many get dirty due to the environment they're in, with many candles and incense for example. Cleaning them is strangely enough often of low priority or even a non-issue. Icons often are supposed to have "patina" and cleaning them could make them look to new.

    • @iwillroam
      @iwillroam 2 роки тому +65

      Yeah, Julian's gone on at length before about how paintings and icons don't have "patina". I had thought they did. I thought that was something they aged with and made them look better because people seemed to go on and on about the old paintings not needing cleaning. But he explains it's just dirt, grime, soot. Learn something new every day. Some people like the look of the dirt, I guess

    • @gl15col
      @gl15col 2 роки тому +72

      The owner wanted it cleaned, and that's their right. I think the original painter wanted it to look the way he originally painted it, and would be happy to see it in it's original lovely colors.

    • @marmotarchivist
      @marmotarchivist 2 роки тому +52

      This reminds me of the “Black Madonna” of Einsiedeln (CH), an icon in a monastery near where I live, created in the 15th century that was originally painted in flesh tones. The accumulation of soot from the constantly burning candles darkened the wood so that as far back as the 17th century, the icon was known as the “Black Madonna”. The statue was removed before the arrival of the Napoleonic troops, hastily buried in the earth and later brought to Austria, where it had to be restored. The conservator remarked that there were old paint flakes that were flesh toned, but he decided to remove them and paint everything in the black colour that was already dominant. So the icon was permanently given the colour that it accidentally had for most of its existence.

    • @lefterismplanas4977
      @lefterismplanas4977 2 роки тому +12

      Even icons where not made to look dirty. They where made with love to look like what they are representing. And that "Patina" is just taking away from it

    • @JohnDavidHays
      @JohnDavidHays 2 роки тому +16

      @@gl15col Not really. Icons are supposed to acquire smoke and wax and olive oil and patina. Remember these are not “art” they are windows and spiritual tools. Some are the loci of miraculous interventions by the saint. Icons are not supposed to be cleaned or restored. The accumulation of dirt and wear is the normal result of years and generations of veneration

  • @Masaki_1337
    @Masaki_1337 2 роки тому +172

    24:47 On the halo on the right, left and top are three Greek letters - O (omicron), W (omega) and N (nu), forming the word. This inscription is of a fundamental nature, since it indicates the Deity of Jesus Christ. Being is one of the names of God. In the Greek tradition, the letters are arranged as follows: O (omicron) on the left, W (omega) at the top, and N (nu) on the right.

    • @ringlófa
      @ringlófa 2 роки тому +12

      Exactly, I'm surprised he didn't notice!

    • @melod3331
      @melod3331 2 роки тому +4

      I’m Greek and I didn’t knew that ,thank you 💜

    • @petervandermolen9835
      @petervandermolen9835 2 роки тому

      I am very impressed by your work. Glad you restore where needed and don't make it "new". That balance between retaining age and patina yet restoring the damage comes from your obvious skill, but also appreciation and restraint. Now THAT impresses me most! Thank you so much!

    • @Songbirdstress
      @Songbirdstress 2 роки тому +4

      And figures? He didn't recognise Mary and Jesus? Wierd.

    • @Songbirdstress
      @Songbirdstress 2 роки тому +4

      Could you explain more, I can't read that at all? Actually on Jesus' halo? I can read "Mother of God" above Mary, mu, (tau)?, rho (mater mother) theta, sigma (theos God) then above Jesus iota, sigma short for Jesus, chi, sigma short for Christos, Christ. Excuses for my rusty transliteration ( it was never perfect to begin with😊)

  • @magellantv
    @magellantv 2 роки тому +216

    Everything about this video is beautiful.

  • @Valhayden-ju7xt
    @Valhayden-ju7xt Рік тому +13

    I'm just a blue collar worker that just happened to watch your series, I have learned so much that I didn't know about art. Your a great teacher.

  • @jeremysalkeld8742
    @jeremysalkeld8742 2 роки тому +68

    24:47: I'm pretty sure that was covering up paint that was supposed to be there. A nimbus of omicron, omega, nu is a pretty standard feature of icons of Jesus.

  • @jessicanielsen7831
    @jessicanielsen7831 2 роки тому +121

    Okay, hear me out... a cleaning complilation... 🥰🥰. I know that Julian edits with time in mind, but I am always wanting more of the cleaning and varnish removal... the appearance of long hidden colors and details makes me so happy

  • @vandergrad
    @vandergrad 2 роки тому +319

    Every time I watch one of his videos, I am reminded of how many fields of study that Julian needs to be skilled in, in order to properly restore a piece... Chemist, Carpenter, Engineer, Artist, Art Historian... are there any that I've missed?

    • @daniedel6333
      @daniedel6333 2 роки тому +43

      Saint, as in patience of as Saint!! LOL

    • @that_thing_I_do
      @that_thing_I_do 2 роки тому +15

      I do like his carpentry..unexpected pleasure.

    • @mariek2070
      @mariek2070 2 роки тому +31

      Customer service, accountant/estimator, investigator, buyer ($ vs needed product), showman, janitor....Many MANY hats!

    • @IreneWY
      @IreneWY 2 роки тому +10

      You missed CAD

    • @paulamccarthy9511
      @paulamccarthy9511 2 роки тому +1

      @@IreneWY
      I don’t believe you know what the definition of the word “cad” is.
      How has Julian “behaved dishonorably towards a woman”?

  • @lauraw3117
    @lauraw3117 2 роки тому +88

    Something we don’t typically hear is the approximate age of the art you work on. Can you include that in your videos? 🥰

  • @Ladypuppy510
    @Ladypuppy510 2 роки тому +26

    Of all the restorations I've watched you do, this one felt the most vibrant. How different it looked once completed. Funny I'll never be involved in the restoration of any art, yet I find myself completely engrossed in your videos. Thank you so very much for sharing your work.

  • @EmmitWest
    @EmmitWest 2 роки тому +82

    Never have I wanted to witness the client's reaction to seeing a restored painting more than this one. Surely they had no idea what was underneath.

  • @kaerix0
    @kaerix0 2 роки тому +23

    These are the most relaxing videos on UA-cam.

  • @cindikeane4718
    @cindikeane4718 2 роки тому +16

    This was amazing. It is a picture of the Blessed Mother holding the Christ child. Seeing you restore this beautiful piece filed my heart with love and appreciation. In almost all Greek Orthodox iconography, the (Theotokos) Blessed Mother always has somewhat of a stern face. Anyway, beautiful work! Thank you!

  • @MoondustManwise
    @MoondustManwise 2 роки тому +55

    Considering how often Julian prefers the medium of artificial adhesives, seeing him use hide glue is always like stepping off the last stair only to realize there was one more stair beneath that you just missed walking down.

    • @CorwynGC
      @CorwynGC 2 роки тому +9

      Julian prefers the right tool for the job. In this instance he gives us his reasons for this selection.

    • @MoondustManwise
      @MoondustManwise 2 роки тому +7

      @@CorwynGC I know, I more meant it was a very odd sensation to see him pull out something he historically isn't fond of

    • @SeekingTheLoveThatGodMeans7648
      @SeekingTheLoveThatGodMeans7648 2 роки тому +2

      Technically, Julian seems to prefer things that can be readily removed if someone in the future wants to treat the original artwork differently. Both hide glue and, say, Titebond can be undone, but the process is easier for hide glue.

  • @tbp.whiteraven
    @tbp.whiteraven 2 роки тому +56

    The little circles you covered with gold paint at 24:48 one little O above the head and one little O on the left side of the aureola on the aureola of baby Jesus were not defects I'm afraid...those were parts of the cross pattern. There should be one on the right side of the aureola too, so that the three suggest a cross...

    • @Shcreamingreen
      @Shcreamingreen 2 роки тому +6

      These were "ό ών", "I Am". Incredibly obvious and important detail.

  • @bethcrane5780
    @bethcrane5780 2 роки тому +45

    Ok, as it was winding down I was mesmerized by how lovely this couplet is and then ended laughing out loud. Icon fix it, indeed. Thanks Julian, you do amazing work.

  • @onnovisser4284
    @onnovisser4284 2 роки тому +18

    Hi Julian, just wanted to let you know that your videos have helped me through one of the toughest years of my life. Your soothing videos were the highlight of my week. Luckily I found a better job and feel a lot better, but your uploads never fail to bring a smile to my face. Thanks a lot and keep up the great work!

    • @potchoe
      @potchoe 2 роки тому +1

      I’m glad for you, keep going! All the best! :)

  • @crimsonfox101
    @crimsonfox101 2 роки тому +28

    Julian's videos are some of the best on UA-cam. I love every single one he puts out

  • @sosukelele
    @sosukelele 2 роки тому +4

    If there's one thing I admire about these restorations it's the patience Julian has. I know that he goes about doing it in parts, taking breaks in between and everything, but that's still a lot of time spent getting as close as possible without going over the line. Kudos

  • @brandzai
    @brandzai 2 роки тому +459

    Hello Julian. I noticed that on the child's halo there was writing (basically an "O" to the left side of his face, and a "W" above it. There would have been an "N" on the right side but that was lost in damage) which was touched up with gold paint, but not re-written, so to speak. Was this an oversight? I can't imagine that but can also not come up with an explanation.

    • @popcorny007
      @popcorny007 2 роки тому +42

      Letters in the gilding? That would be inconsistent with the other white-on-blue text.
      Edit: I see what you mean at 15:18, very very faint pearl lettering in the gold halo

    • @joanneshellings5457
      @joanneshellings5457 2 роки тому +25

      Correct "W" "O" "N"

    • @florianbooneiam
      @florianbooneiam 2 роки тому +51

      Yes, I noticed that too. Maybe neither the owner nor Julian were aware of their theological meaning and importance to the icon.

    • @firstnlastnamethe3rd771
      @firstnlastnamethe3rd771 2 роки тому +3

      I think it says: "GOD"?
      But I only see the O & D.
      ...SOD, WOD, MOD & BOD
      seem outta the question. 🤔

    • @bkbff
      @bkbff 2 роки тому +24

      @@popcorny007 At 23:01 when he starts on the baby, you can see it clearly. There is a letter to the left and above in the halo. It does appear that he gilded over them.

  • @polarisedelectrons
    @polarisedelectrons 2 роки тому +6

    When I clicked on this, I thought the restoration was going to be digital. The fact that it is all done so thoughtfully and gently by hand is just amazing. This is beautiful.

  • @AI-hx3fx
    @AI-hx3fx 2 роки тому +118

    Really appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship on a folksy yet beautiful icon. The motions and precision in restoration is an art in and of itself.
    For the curious, the Greek inscriptions from top to bottom are:
    - "ΜΡ ΘOU" ("Meter Theou", "Mother of God"; the "OU" are stacked as a ligature)
    - "IΣ•XΣ" ("Iesous Christos")
    - "H ἘΛEOUΣA" ("I Eleousa", "The Tenderness"; the "ΛE" is joined and "OU"" is stacked as ligatures).
    The pose and the name mean this is an icon of the "Eleousa" or "Showing Mercy" type.

    • @davidmiller9485
      @davidmiller9485 2 роки тому +5

      Yes the Icon is called "Theotokos with child". The child is Christos or Christ. There are many variations on this theme.

  • @davidmontgomery1016
    @davidmontgomery1016 2 роки тому +5

    I am always blown away by the cleaning process. The colors seem to explode once the dirt is removed. Really enjoy watching the process.

  • @sailorarwen6101
    @sailorarwen6101 2 роки тому +26

    Funny anecdote for you. My cat enjoys watching the retouching process 😆 I assume it’s the quick movements of the little brush, but she does not look away from the screen when it’s going on.

  • @Nashifruit96
    @Nashifruit96 2 роки тому +52

    Julian cleaning the face of baby jesus: “This child”.

    • @iantaakalla8180
      @iantaakalla8180 2 роки тому +5

      When the person who is a restorationist are not versed in Orthodox iconography

    • @jacksparrowarrrr
      @jacksparrowarrrr 9 місяців тому +3

      I came here to say this 😜😂

    • @louisemagill8295
      @louisemagill8295 8 місяців тому +1

      *Jesus 😊

    • @fruGDrage
      @fruGDrage Місяць тому

      Isn't Mary usually dressed in blue?

  • @dvukovic
    @dvukovic 2 роки тому +280

    At 24:48 you have actually painted over "omicron" and "omega" symbols in the halo which are there to tell us that the person on the image is divine eg. jesus himself! On the right hand side which was damaged you should have added the "Nu" symbol, and not paint over everything.

    • @Rene_Voortwist
      @Rene_Voortwist 2 роки тому +13

      I just can’t imagine that Julian would miss this. There’s got to be a reason for him doing this.

    • @dvukovic
      @dvukovic 2 роки тому +75

      @@Rene_Voortwist I think it's just an honest mistake.

    • @savegalkissy
      @savegalkissy 2 роки тому +28

      @@Rene_Voortwist they’re incredibly cracked and jagged, it’s hard to see the letters in the video. It’s most likely just a mistake

    • @renerpho
      @renerpho 2 роки тому +21

      @@savegalkissy Yes. Sadly, these letters are present in all icons of this type, and are important to the image's content. I hope Julian reads this comment.

    • @sticlavoda5632
      @sticlavoda5632 2 роки тому +29

      This is INCREDIBLY important. Without those symbols the depiction is not of Jesus.

  • @liaalexan224
    @liaalexan224 2 роки тому +44

    First thing that came to mind when i saw the painting i immediately thought about Greece because of the writing on it. I never thought I'd see julian restoring a painting from my country!
    Ps. This is Jesus Christ and his Mother, it's not just a portrait of a woman and a child!

    • @slbarbieri1725
      @slbarbieri1725 2 роки тому +4

      He definitely knows that. He's worked on other icons

    • @liaalexan224
      @liaalexan224 2 роки тому +6

      @@slbarbieri1725 just wanted to point that out because he said: "that child" in the video and I wasn't sure if he knew😁

    • @skulldon9
      @skulldon9 2 роки тому +9

      He’s Jewish, so maybe he actively chooses not to name them, as Jews don’t recognise the divinity of Jesus Christ as the Messiah.

    • @sailorarwen6101
      @sailorarwen6101 2 роки тому +3

      Yes, as icons refer to paintings of religious characters I would HOPE most people are aware of the subject matter. Then again, when I took art history 101 I was the only person that seemed to know anything about the Bible so I guess I shouldn’t hold my breath

    • @bcafed
      @bcafed 2 роки тому +8

      @@skulldon9 I'm not Buddhist, but I wouldn't neglect saying a picture of the Buddha is the Buddha.

  • @PkGam
    @PkGam 7 місяців тому

    This is one of the most astonishing restorations I've ever seen! The paint was literally falling off, yet you still kept it together and adhered it back in place. Flattening it to boot! All of the touch ups looked just right (and yes, I seen the followup, I'll comment there too), plus the proportions around the edges were built back up nicely! The colors from the cleaning really came through as well! I'd never have guessed they were that good!

  • @matthewrogers94mr
    @matthewrogers94mr Рік тому +5

    Holy cow that is amazing how you restored this painting! I would've never imagined a painting like this could be restored and the paint job you do looks so close to original!

  • @bonihani17
    @bonihani17 2 роки тому +1

    I work at a frame shop and watching Baumgartner's videos is always a learning experience. At my job, I am not allowed to restore artwork, only frame it as is. I can't help but imagine what I would do to help preserve artwork, rather than put it under museum glass with spacers and hope for the best. At least I use acid free materials when framing. Sometimes I wish I could do more.

  • @RastadasPT
    @RastadasPT 2 роки тому +13

    What an absolute shocker of a result! Turned out stunning, as the original artist intended.

  • @MatthewBlackwell1015
    @MatthewBlackwell1015 2 роки тому +108

    That pink is unusual for Mary to wear in an icon. My guess is that it was originally red and has faded significantly over the years. She usually is depicted wearing crimson, royal blue, or sky blue.

    • @capuchinosofia4771
      @capuchinosofia4771 2 роки тому +21

      Yup, i imagine it was just like vangoghs bedroom painting. According to his letters, the floor was red, not pink-ish. Seems like red has quite bad lightfastness

    • @madiis18account
      @madiis18account 2 роки тому +34

      ​@@capuchinosofia4771 a lot of red paints used to be made with lake pigments, from organic sources like the madder plant and later cochineal insects. In fact it was through analysis of van Gogh's paintings that we were able to learn a lot about lightfastness and the breakdown of pigments when exposed to light. van Gogh was poor, and likely could not afford to use lightfast pigments like vermillion, so instead he used lake pigments - most commonly we find evidence of eosin and cochineal used for reds by van Gogh. Red lake pigments are notoriously terrible in terms of fading, many of his paintings lost their hue within his own lifetime, something he remarked upon in letters to his family.
      Interestingly with van Gogh, he knew his paintings would fade and intentionally (by his own words) painted them more boldly and vividly knowing that it would not last. Despite knowing the paints would fade he used them anyway because he loved the vibrant colours. Perhaps that played a role in why so many of his works went unappreciated until more recently, now that they're faded.
      There's been some effort to digitally restore some of van Gogh's works to how they may have looked when he originally painted them, and my god were they vivid to say the least. The floor of the bedroom was a most likely salmon pink colour, so still not a vivid red but certainly not a dull pinkish brown. Also, the walls were purple! Look up the Revigo project if you're curious to learn more and see the examples of digital restorations.

    • @capuchinosofia4771
      @capuchinosofia4771 2 роки тому +7

      @@madiis18account ah what a lovely comment! Yes, i had read about the Revigo project recently which sparked my comment lol
      Thanks for the info!

    • @madiis18account
      @madiis18account 2 роки тому +1

      @Billy White Jr. van Gogh knew; many of his red paints faded in his own lifetime, and we know that he knew cos he wrote letters to his family about it. But yes, he was also particularly poor and even if he did want to paint with lightfast reds, probably could not afford them.

    • @mwater_moon2865
      @mwater_moon2865 2 роки тому +1

      @@madiis18account Not to mention the light fast reds were very poisonous.

  • @jaycornelius236
    @jaycornelius236 2 роки тому +33

    Watched another art restorer channel from UK. Just not the same. BR is the best, in content, narration and videography.

  • @heatherinparis
    @heatherinparis 2 роки тому +21

    When Julian ran the brushfull of isolation liquid over the green areas of the painting I outright gasped with surprise/shock at how vibrant that green became. Just WOW!!

  • @biohack3077
    @biohack3077 2 роки тому +6

    I made an entire story in my head... Julien's studio being in Chicago where there is a huge Greek community, had the opportunity to restore a very much loved family heirloom that accompanied a family in their voyage to the new world. Sometimes people's stories are as wonderful as the objects they are ephemeral custodians.

  • @thehutch7728
    @thehutch7728 2 роки тому +2

    Ugh! The colour pop after the resin layer was GORGEOUS!!!

  • @catherine5599
    @catherine5599 2 роки тому +5

    Julian, the gorgeous music during the paint retouching is so wonderful. Thank you for making my day.

    • @LilithL641
      @LilithL641 2 роки тому +6

      I love it too! Does anyone know what this song it is? Finding classical pieces is so hard and I’d love to be able to listen to it again.

  • @fredonitch8761
    @fredonitch8761 2 роки тому +2

    Amazing how this youtube channel brings me peace of mind. Not just the voice but also the knowledge and great work done to restore and preserve all these art pieces. There is a book of Alessandro Baricco,"The barbarians" explaining how fields of knowledge can be destroyed by people without knowledge invading those fields. You, sir, are definitly not one of them. Thank you for inviting us in your wonderful world of knowledge (and sorry for my poor english).

  • @slbarbieri1725
    @slbarbieri1725 2 роки тому +4

    Absolutely incredible! As a person who got a visual communications degree in the last millennium, I am living vicariously through these videos. I've always been fascinated with history and restoration (must be due to being a carpenter's daughter!) And I can appreciate this from the work standpoint as well as the historical. Kudos to you!

  • @Fenrir11119
    @Fenrir11119 2 роки тому +10

    This is an absolutely incredible transformation. It’s an entirely different looking piece. Incredible work!

  • @nathnolt
    @nathnolt 2 роки тому +22

    I feel like the retouching could have been a bit better, it looks a little bit flat, and it also looks to me, like the thumb of the left hand was still there in the non retouched version, yet was painted over. I don't mean to say that I could have done it better, I couldn't have. But just stating my opinion.

    • @Vocalinds
      @Vocalinds 2 роки тому +5

      I was disappointed in the color of the gold retouching... To me it was too bright orange/yellow and didn't match.

  • @BigGuy8059
    @BigGuy8059 2 роки тому +2

    I have zero art training, but these restorations bring me to tears.

  • @juliend5047
    @juliend5047 2 роки тому +18

    You’ve become the gold standard in Restauration. I have an old 17th century painting on wood and all the conservators I’ve considered so far do not compare to you in terms of craftsmanship etc. I’m considering to receive a quote from you. I live in Switzerland, so it’s not easy to send the painting to the US.

    • @ghostoflazlo
      @ghostoflazlo Рік тому

      Like bro, you have kunshaus, national art museum or just shoot a mail to SKR.
      You have good, even excellent people, in Switzerland they just don't have a youtube channel hence you aren't as "starstruck" with them

  • @Darscm
    @Darscm 2 роки тому +1

    “Icon fix it”. How great. A comedian as well as a magician because what Julian does with restoration is nothing short of magic coupled with expertise and experience. Thank you for the privilege of watching you work.

  • @Excitable67
    @Excitable67 2 роки тому +4

    WOW!! What a transformation! The brilliant colors I never suspected were there under all that grime and old varnish! Incredible! This one had to be pretty exciting to do...

  • @TheMiltosmarathon
    @TheMiltosmarathon 2 роки тому +3

    Excellent work as always!...I really enjoy your videos my friend! Greetings from the beautiful Greece!

  • @jimleon7894
    @jimleon7894 2 роки тому +3

    I really wish you would list the music you used in today’s retouching. To some of us, the beauty of the music is just as aesthetic as the beauty of the art you restore.

  • @amazinggrace5692
    @amazinggrace5692 2 роки тому

    14:15 I know what he means. As a pediatrician I’ve seen countless babies, children, and teens …. It still thrills me and seems miraculous when a 6 month old sits up, when a toddler walks, when a child writes or illustrates the imaginative stories in their minds, when a teen struggles with and then conquers issues of puberty, identity, and relationships, when post high school students adjust to young adulthood, and their place in the world. And so much more, but my point is I still find it amazing. Every time. Much love 💕🐝💕🇺🇸

  • @gencox1107
    @gencox1107 2 роки тому +3

    Every single time your retouching skills blow me away! This one was so relaxing with the music 😴

  • @pennymccabe6989
    @pennymccabe6989 Рік тому

    It’s not just you. Considering how many subscribers you have and all the comments, we can all agree! It never gets old! Watching the paintings come into the light during the cleaning keeps us all enthralled and coming back! Thank you for sharing this beautiful process with us all! 😊

  • @georgeroditakis6460
    @georgeroditakis6460 2 роки тому +14

    Hi, I think you repainted the letters ο ων 24:45 which are in every orthodox icon of jesus. It means the one who exist and i am pretty sure its kind of important. I hope i helped

  • @chrisduncan6600
    @chrisduncan6600 2 роки тому +1

    Absolutely brilliant. It’s so satisfying to watch the process and see the finished product. You can almost hear the piece breathe a sigh of relief at being restored to its original grandeur and somewhere the original artist rejoices! Magnificent!

  • @shannonstevens3025
    @shannonstevens3025 2 роки тому +3

    God knows this man is truly truly talented! God knows since he gave him such skill! I have watched him so long and I am absolutely amazed at his work! Not only does he restore and preserve the art his skill with touch up just blows me completely away,thanks for allowing me to see such amazing work,bless you all, remember to love 1 another and choose peace over war,take care folks.

  • @DipityS
    @DipityS 2 роки тому +1

    This has been one of the most enjoyable restorations - I think because the beautiful blues and other colours were so hidden and now are alive again. I liked the new technique of almost stop-motion you incorporated - (which you've probably used before) - I do enjoy the new skills you use being added to your videos as I know that must be more satisfying as a creator and we viewers reap the benefits.

  • @POVLA
    @POVLA 2 роки тому +3

    Saint Peter just informed the artist that his work has been restored.

  • @falkhammermuller9342
    @falkhammermuller9342 2 роки тому +1

    I'm about to get off my couch and onto my knees for this result. This is magnificent, absolutely beautiful and next to a miracle. You are truly an icon as well.

  • @cs3742
    @cs3742 2 роки тому +13

    "...eschewing using power tools..." Thank you Julian, I've never heard the verb eschew used in spoken language, only in erudite literature. 🙂

    • @vertigo.frog2110
      @vertigo.frog2110 2 роки тому +7

      for someone pretending to be smart you would think you'd know it's spelled eschew

    • @cs3742
      @cs3742 2 роки тому +1

      @@vertigo.frog2110 Since misspelling has offended,
      Lately It has been amended.
      Let no more snarks be here appended,
      And now with smiles let all be ended.

    • @tenjenk
      @tenjenk 2 роки тому +2

      @@vertigo.frog2110 since their post wasn't made maliciously and they arent pretending but you're just being pedantic about a positive post, upon thyself may thy accusations lay.

  • @MQZ17
    @MQZ17 2 роки тому +1

    The cleaning of the paintings is my favorite part of these videos, it's like a new painting comes to life

  • @the-chillian
    @the-chillian 2 роки тому +27

    Julian, you covered up the lettering in Christ's halo here. That was original paint and, as this is a religious object, theologically significant.

    • @SparkedSoul
      @SparkedSoul 2 роки тому

      Ah, you can hardly see it until 23:55 the W is evident, then. It's difficult otherwise to make out.

    • @triciac.5078
      @triciac.5078 2 роки тому +6

      I saw that, I cringed. I'm not even Christian and I know it's important.

    • @the-chillian
      @the-chillian 2 роки тому +2

      @@alexalexiadis He covered up the ὁ ὢν in the halo.

    • @the-chillian
      @the-chillian 2 роки тому +1

      ​@@alexalexiadis This is absolutely incorrect. Christ is almost always depicted with ὁ ὢν in his halo, which also usually has a cross inscribed. This example lacks the cross, but not the lettering.
      My reply with a link to a Google search isn't showing up; perhaps they get filtered here. But Googling for "greek icon christ" will show you numerous examples. If you've never noticed this, you've been almost unforgivably inattentive in church.

    • @alexalexiadis
      @alexalexiadis 2 роки тому +1

      @@the-chillian You have absolutely right..sorry my mistake!!!I didn’t notice (my eyes betrayed me!)he covered it!!!
      It’s obvious I see it clear now with my glasses on!!
      No hard feelings…thank you!

  • @Chr.U.Cas1622
    @Chr.U.Cas1622 2 роки тому +1

    👍👌👏 Almost unreal looking, so clean and colourful now. Simply fantastic again and as always (video and work).

  • @kj7707
    @kj7707 2 роки тому +12

    It's a good day when Julian uploads 😌

  • @ianbrowne8871
    @ianbrowne8871 2 роки тому +1

    I usually think of icons on panels using egg tempera - I assume this was done in oils. You have restored this to life and the faces are radiant as are the colours. It may be small but you have created a gem.

  • @JR-nw4to
    @JR-nw4to 2 роки тому +4

    Gluing the wood perpendicular to the grain direction is going to be problematic in the future. Yes, it's not structural, however, wood is an anisotropic material. It will change dimensions in its width and thickness - but almost nothing in its length. The movement in the old timber, and no movement in the new timber is going to cause more issues - possibly even splitting the board...This is the first rule of woodworking

  • @mwoods1052
    @mwoods1052 2 роки тому

    I live vicariously through you and your wonderful techniques. I always wanted to be an art restorer but could not afford the years of higher education, so I chose another path. Now I’m beyond retired and wistfully watch your glorious restorations wondering what my life would have been like had I followed this profession. I love your work. Thank you!

  • @Siansonea
    @Siansonea 2 роки тому +3

    Excellent work. One might even say it's _iconic._

  • @photospiros
    @photospiros 2 роки тому +1

    Greetings from Greece!!! I love your work!!!

  • @emmafre-haack1746
    @emmafre-haack1746 2 роки тому +5

    Essere silenziosi testimoni di tanta abilità, sensibilità ed amore per l’arte è una esperienza unica e preziosa. Quei due colpi sapienti di pennello per restaurare la manina del bimbo… emozionante, appropriato ed inimitabile! Un grazie sentito dalla lontana Europa…

  • @elizabetht.6605
    @elizabetht.6605 2 роки тому +1

    I love how he kept the look of the antiquity. It still looks old, and loved, but vibrant at the same time.

  • @Mr_Daddums
    @Mr_Daddums 2 роки тому +6

    Brilliant work! Although it looks like you painted over the symbols on the child's golden halo

  • @clownfromclowntown
    @clownfromclowntown 2 роки тому +2

    Idk why but up until 3:00 I thought that this painting was like, 2ftx3ft or something so seeing the actual size was REALLY jarring

  • @lilylomcari1750
    @lilylomcari1750 2 роки тому +3

    Would really appreciate more of a focus on the cleaning process. It’s very interesting and satisfying to watch it change. The painting part was great! Something like that for the cleaning as well!!

    • @iglowinthedark3645
      @iglowinthedark3645 2 роки тому

      I like listening to his voice. If he runs out of things to say he could start talking about the history of the painting

  • @sanewfield1
    @sanewfield1 2 роки тому +1

    Have watched your magic since the beginning of the channel, and am still excited to see the cleaning. Also, the painting becomes whole with your little dots of paint. Magic at its best.

  • @justinmihoc7691
    @justinmihoc7691 2 роки тому +7

    I'm afraid you painted over the Ὁ ὬΝ inside Christ's halo. Those letters (translating to "He who is") are a reference to the answer Moses received on Mount Sinai.

  • @rubymimosa
    @rubymimosa 2 роки тому

    Yes, youcon! Beautifully done! As a Catholic raised in Zaragoza Spain and heavily familiar with El Pilar (a basilica for the Americans) I am really moved by this piece! Excellent work Julian.

  • @shanettequao9043
    @shanettequao9043 2 роки тому +6

    Love these videos. Always so educational and relaxing 😌

  • @jasoncooney3595
    @jasoncooney3595 2 роки тому +1

    It still amazes me how you match colors so well. Beautiful!

  • @seriouslyreally5413
    @seriouslyreally5413 2 роки тому +15

    The elephant in the room Julian, why did you not restore the Greek letters on the halo of the Christ Child that were clearly visible at 16:35 camera angle?

  • @irinakalvan299
    @irinakalvan299 Рік тому +2

    Какая же красивая икона! Трепетность, с которой Вы подходите к реставрации вызывает огромное уважение к Вам, как замечательному реставратору и Человеку! Икона наполнилась светом и это трогает душу. Спасибо!

  • @Antaios632
    @Antaios632 2 роки тому +5

    I didn't get the pun until the very end, but I did think "what an odd title, I wonder what that's about, oh well, too excited to watch the video to think too much about it." 😂 I think my groan woke up the cat!

  • @yazdhenab.
    @yazdhenab. 2 роки тому +1

    I REALLY want to see the face of the owner when you show it's painting restored! It's an astonishing work!

  • @felimuller909
    @felimuller909 2 роки тому +3

    For anyone wondering about the greek text: MH(TH)R (meter = mother ) θ(ε)ο(υ) (theou, of God) -- - - -- Ι(ησού)ς Χ(ριστό)ς (Iesous Xristos, Jesus Christ)
    'Η ΕΛΕωΣΑ (he eleousa - the merciful (one))
    16:32 not sure why the writing in the nimbus of Jesus was painted over; ό ών (ho on) is a shorter version of ἐγώ εἰμι ὁ ῶν (~ I am the one that is) from the revelation of God to Moses in Ex 3,14.

  • @antagonizerr
    @antagonizerr 2 роки тому +8

    You definitely need a contour gauge Julian. It'd make mating uneven surfaces profoundly easier.

  • @TwoWitchyMoons
    @TwoWitchyMoons 2 роки тому +1

    I thought this was a big piece, and was super surprised to see how small it was. It gives you a whole new appreciation of restoration!

  • @Psychlist1972
    @Psychlist1972 2 роки тому +13

    5:52 Please please use the riving knife on your saw when you're ripping, especially when you're that close to the fence and when you're standing right in the line of fire like you were. Back when I used to remove the splitter from my saw, I had some kickback when doing a narrow rip, which gave me a scar just to the right-hand side of of the jewels. It can happen to anyone, no matter how pro you are.

  • @c.s.4191
    @c.s.4191 2 роки тому +1

    My favorite channel on UA-cam.

  • @whitexeno
    @whitexeno 2 роки тому +3

    Hey, its a lot safer to rip thin strips on the other side of the blade. When the thin strip is between the fence and blade there is the possibility that it can get pinched and shoot back at you in a kick back.

    • @sstoeps
      @sstoeps Рік тому

      Would need two passes then to make sure it's square, right?

    • @whitexeno
      @whitexeno Рік тому

      @@sstoeps If your stock is not square yes, if it is square already, then its no different in terms of accuracy of thin side against the fence.

  • @EyeC999
    @EyeC999 2 роки тому

    Just brilliant, Julian. I cannot believe the original colors are so beautiful and soft - almost pastel. Incredibly satisfying to watch the transformation.

  • @alexaadams1738
    @alexaadams1738 2 роки тому +5

    I was expecting a painting 10x bigger then it was lol. I'm seriously addicted to watching these videos before bed. Julian's voice is so calming and watching each painting be restored is so interesting plus I love history and hearing the back story that has serviced centuries is incredible. Amazing work as always Julian, I can't wait to see what you save next .

  • @kemmow25
    @kemmow25 2 роки тому

    As a person who never really could paint expect from within my eyes you do such a great job. I have often thought, what if the artwork you restored could talk. I think they would all say something to the effect, I was hidden, broken, dirty and sad. And now you have made me feel alive, clean, young and happy. I guess something I often thing about while watching your work.

  • @xyz.anonymous
    @xyz.anonymous 2 роки тому +9

    What happened to the baby's halo? At 16:27 it has letters on it! In the final restoration they are gone :(

  • @MrRedwires
    @MrRedwires 2 роки тому +1

    Watching the process of retouching the painting, slowly filling in the gaps and cracks and loss, almost made it feel like repairing history itself. Those were people once, decades ago, now likely with only this painting remaining. We'll all end up like that I suppose - and we could all be lucky to have someone like Julian keep our memory alive and complete just a little longer.

  • @Shcreamingreen
    @Shcreamingreen 2 роки тому +3

    You've painted over "ό ών" on Emmanuel's halo.