Museum Conservator

David Fuentes (DF) Conservation is a Museum Conservator that specializes in returning historical objects to their original or usable and functional condition.

Simple Restoration jobs may simply consist of a thorough cleaning, minor touch-ups, applying a new coat of finish, and/or applying a coat of paste wax. More Complex Restoration can include replacing missing or broken doors, drawers, feet, trim pieces, hardware, and any other part of the original piece. It can also include all kinds of repairs including burn marks, cracks, splits, loose and damaged veneers, loose joints of every type, worn drawer slides, and every other conceivable kind of wear and tear that comes from use and abuse.

When planning for restoration, we note the condition, period, and detail of the object to be restored to determine what actions should be taken. This can be done preliminarily on-site, but final recommendations are made only after the object has been reviewed in the studio. We carefully consider the client’s needs and use of the object. We examine for structural stability—if repairs are required, if parts are missing or broken. We analyze the condition of the finish, observing the patina and any traces of aging that match the period of the object. Preservation of the patina is critical to the integrity and value of any piece. From this data, we create a condition report and we outline the treatment proposal, which is then presented to our client.

For very old or very large objects, this kind of job is not recommended for amateurs; There can typically be considerable physical strength demands depending on the size of the piece, the need for a number of tools, an ideal workspace with natural lighting, and a great deal of storage space.

DF Conservation blends a passion for perfection with tasteful restraint in its antique wood restoration and antique wood refinishing of period and contemporary furniture, woodwork, and wooden architectural objects. Attention to detail and a respect for the integrity of a piece during the restoration process allow us to retain its original nature as much as possible.

Call us at 718-381-3548 if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment. We're located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn just outside of New York City.

Antique Furniture Restoration Services

. Structural repairs

. Compensation for missing parts

. Consolidation of veneers and inlays

. Touch-ups

. Matching stains to existing finishes

. Castings

. Carving

. Caning

. Leatherwork

. Upholstery

Furniture Refinishing Services

. French polish

. Waxes

. Oils and varnishes

. Hand-rubbed finishes for lacquers and polyurethane

. Patinas/aging/antiquing

. Gilding

. Glazing

. Strie

. Ceruse

. Distressing

. Sand-blasting

. Custom and special finishes as per client specifications