Cliff Stapleton

I have worked as a gilder and restorer since 1978, gaining my first practical experience with Robert Sielles in Knightsbridge, after which I worked for Swallow Frames and Bellhouse Restoration. In recent years I have established my own studio in Somerton, Somerset. My past experience includes work for the following major clients:

The Mercers' Company (the premier Livery Company of the City of London)

The Grocers' Company (ranked second in order of precedence for the City Livery Companies)

The Carpenters' Company (the senior City Livery Company of the construction trade)

My work for the Livery Companies involved picture and frame restoration of their painting, print and watercolour collections. Working as part of a team with the respected restoration expert Graham Bignell (of Graham Bignell Paper Conservation) I carried out a full survey of the Mercers' Company Art collection, giving a detailed report on the condition of both the frames and the artworks. We highlighted a number of urgent conservation problems, all of which were dealt with thanks to the survey.

Other specialist work I have undertaken includes: Producing black lacquer frames for exhibits at the Museum of Docklands Restoration of a sculpture by reknowned artist Malcolm Poynter Restoration of plaster panels on the walls of a Jesuit Chapel near Sheffield Gilding and special finishes to antique furniture, mirrors, clock cases, mannikins, etc. I also carry out gilding work on musical instruments. Recent examples include the restoration of fine gilding on an antique harpsicord, and restoration to the head and tail piece of a bass viol made by Dietrich M. Kessler.

My hourly rate ranges from £15.00 to £25.00 per hour. I am happy to visit any location to give estimates or quotations, and can work closely with Paper Conservators or Painting Restorers to provide a full service.