Restoring the Marble Bust of Nicholas Brown III

Nicholas Brown III (October 2, 1792 – March 2, 1859) was born in Providence, Rhode Island to Nicholas Brown, Jr. He was the United States Consul to the Papal court from 1845 to 1853 and later was Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island from 1856 to 1857.

You can see more about Nick at Brown University’s Portrait Collection

Before treatment: 

The Bust of Nicholas Brown III was heavily soiled with grime and resinous accretions from tobacco smoke, fireplaces and oil lamps, with occasional small gaps from handling many years before.

Restoration of  the Marble Bust of Nicholas Brown III; During restoration

Much of the soil is removed by using a poultice with water and detergent. These images show the wet poultice applied. As the poultice dries, the soil is drawn into the poultice from the marble. On rare occasions the work involves meticulous recutting.

The Marble Bust of Nicholas Brown III; after restoration