Antique Restoration
Butler and Castell specialise in the restoration of carved, gilded and decorated furniture, frames and mirrors, mainly from the 18th and 19th Centuries.
We use traditional methods of woodcarving and gilding for the carving of fine decorative appliqués, gilt furniture, mirror frames and ornamental pieces; also specialising in cut gesso work, the laying of gold and silver leaf, antique gilded surfaces, wax finishing and polishing, and the reviving and restoration of painted surfaces.
Using traditional methods, our restorers and cabinet-makers, carvers and gilders offer a meticulous and thoroughly professional service. Our clients are extremely important to us - please take time to read our ‘How We Work ‘ section, outlining our methods of restoration and conservation.
With 70 years of experience between us, we offer the highest quality of service for all art and antique restoration or reproduction projects, regardless of size, complexity or location. Our customers are from the United Kingdom and overseas - we work both for private collectors and for the London and New York trade.
In addition to Estimates for work (including copies for insurance claims), we provide written Condition and Conservation reports. Our workshops are clean, safe and secure and are based alongside our antique shop and showrooms in North Norfolk.
The image on the right shows a Regency convex mirror, a recently finished restoration project which required all our specialist skills.
How We Work
Proper furniture restoration work takes considerable time and great attention to detail. Our accumulated knowledge combined with years of experience enables us to select the right tools, products and methods to bring back the full beauty of any piece.
Our wood carvers and gilders, polishers and cabinet makers use traditional techniques and materials which are utterly sympathetic and correct for the repair and restoration of an antique piece. Wherever possible we strive to save the original surface - be it water gilding, wax finishing, french polishing or the conserving of a painted finish.
Our gilding is carried out using traditional methods and mediums using only high-quality gold and silver leaf.
Whatever the project we undertake, we are happy to offer a no-fee Estimate, subject to access or image quality. Should unforeseen issues be found with an item, we will always take time with clients to discuss and consider the best approach. Progress reports and images of a project will be emailed, with the aim of keeping all clients fully informed as work proceeds.
If you require more information and/or Estimates, please feel free to call or email.
““We work in the antique trade and know that good quality restoration is the key to retaining the value of any piece. We have worked with the Butler & Castell team for many years and find them to be a trusted group of professionals who love what they do.” ”