A Legacy of Conservation Excellence

At Kingery Conservation, I specialize in the preservation and treatment of a wide array of objects. The studio serves both public institutions and private collectors, ensuring that valuable pieces from historic, sculptural, decorative, and ethnographic collections receive the care they deserve. My commitment to quality conservation practices supports the long-term preservation of your objects.

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Mission

At Kingery Conservation, my mission is to preserve cultural heritage through expert conservation practices. I aim to ensure the stabilize your object or collection while ensuring its long-term preservation. I provide tailored solutions for both institutions and private collectors alike. I believe in educating our clients about the importance of conservation in preserving our shared history. I strive to foster a deep appreciation for art and heritage in every project.

Commitment to Integrity and Excellence

Quality: I prioritize the highest standards in our conservation processes, ensuring each object is treated with the utmost care. My thorough assessments and meticulous techniques preserve the integrity of every piece.
Collaboration: I believe in partnering closely with my clients, understanding their needs and expectations. Together, we develop conservation strategies that best suit the unique requirements of each collection.
Education: I am committed to promoting awareness and understanding of conservation practices. By sharing knowledge, I empower our clients to make informed decisions about the care of their collections.
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Experience

I established Kingery Conservation in 2011, and have provided museum-quality conservation treatment, documentation, collection care, and condition surveys of objects for museums and private collections. Prior to starting my private practice, I worked at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, National Museum of American Indian, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. I work on a variety of objects and materials including glass, ceramics, metals, stone, and organic materials. Two of my specialties are painted surfaces and leather/hide. My past clients include the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, National Museum of American History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, National Air and Space Museum, and the United States Senate. I am also an expert in health and safety as it relates to conservation. I have served on boards of both national and local conservation organizations.

Types of Objects

Decorative Arts: These objects typically originate from historic collections or are cherished family heirlooms. They include ceramics, glass, metals, stone, and materials derived from animals and plants (such as leather, wood, baskets, etc.). Many of these items are composite in nature and may incorporate various materials like textiles, paper, and paint.
Sculpture: These pieces are typically artistic creations intended for display rather than practical use. They can be crafted from a diverse array of materials, including inorganic options (such as metal, glass, ceramics, stone, etc.) and organic materials (derived from plants and animals).
Ethnographic Materials: These objects are made by indigenous cultures from around the world. They can be organic or inorganic. Alongside the usual factors affecting treatment decisions, it is essential to consider cultural and spiritual aspects as well.

Functional Objects

These items are designed for practical use rather than purely decorative purposes. They serve(d) specific functions in daily life. It is sometimes appropriate to treat these in a different manner than typical historic and artistic objects. Sometimes their original function should be returned. I am happy to discuss and treat some of these objects. Frequently, it involves collaboration with other experts in different fields.
Musical Instruments: I collaborate with specialists in musical instrument repair to apply a conservation approach to museum-quality instruments. In certain instances, this may involve repairs that are quite interventive to allow them to be played. Alternatively, due to their use over time, some historic parts may have been replaced with modern components. When these replacements are not suitable for display, they must be substituted with historically appropriate elements.
Clocks: I perform condition assessments and treat the cases of clocks, but I do not work on the mechanisms (the works). I’m available to discuss the pros and cons of restoring a clock’s functionality; however, this type of intervention often involves replacing parts and is generally beyond the scope of typical conservation practices. I can connect you with clock restorers who specialize in working on the mechanisms.
Objects of Faith: Although these items may be decorative, they carry profound spiritual significance. Developing a treatment plan for them necessitates an awareness of the originating religion and may involve consultation or collaboration with a representative from that faith community.
Historic Dolls: There are a variety of approaches to conserving dolls. Doll hospitals can repair detached limbs and eye movement mechanisms, as well as mend broken ceramic components. These interventions generally involve replacing and concealing original parts, often making them more affordable than conservation efforts. In contrast, I employ a minimally interventive approach to preservation that do not obscure or replace original materials.

A Holistic Conservation Approach

I implement a comprehensive methodology tailored to each client’s needs. My approach integrates expert evaluation, treatment, and preventive strategies for lasting preservation.

Assessment

I conduct detailed assessments of each object, analyzing its condition and historical context. This foundational step informs tailored treatment plans.

Treatment

I employ appropriate techniques to treat and stabilize objects, ensuring that they are preserved for future generations. We use ethically sourced materials and methods.

Prevention

I work with clients to develop preventive conservation strategies, helping to minimize potential risks and protect collections from environmental damage. Education and informed practices are key.

Preserve Your Heritage Today

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