Treasures Of Childhood

Restoration is only carried out if it is absolutely necessary. 

Very often rocking horses have been over painted with many layers of gloss paint during their long passage through time from those far off Victorian nursery days.  The paint is very carefully removed in order to uncover the original dappled surface. If there is not enough left to be restored it is stripped back to the bare wood. 

The horse is then professionally and accurately brought back to it's original appearance using traditional methods and materials. Any structural repairs, like securing loose legs, carving new ears or a jaw, and servicing the safety stand are meticulously carried out to ensure that it is safe to be used again as a toy. 

We have 25 years pooled experience in the restoration of a wide range of antiques guaranteeing that our standard of work is very high.

Miniature antique horse and cart

The photo shows Many layers of gloss paint over the original gesso and dappled paintwork. Very badly replaced jaw and one ear.

Old gloss over paint removed and ugly jaw.

New jaw, teeth and tongue carved exactly the same as the original.

New ear carved

There was half of the original on this side, the rest of the ear was carved to match.

EXAMPLES OF RESTORATION