I am an Accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR) specialising in the conservation of easel paintings, working from my studio in Dundee and on-site across the UK. I provide conservation treatments for a wide range of historic and modern paintings, including works on canvas, panel, and metal.
My clients include public galleries, churches, museums, and private collectors. With over 25 years’ experience, my approach is grounded in careful examination, ethical decision-making, and the application of technically rigorous methods. I also offer condition surveys, collections care advice, training, and support for loans and exhibitions. I am committed to the long-term care and understanding of painted heritage.
Conservation Treatments
I provide full treatment of easel paintings including surface cleaning, structural repair, varnish removal, lining, consolidation, and retouching. Each intervention is carefully documented and tailored to the needs of the artwork and its context.
Surveys and Condition Reporting
I carry out condition assessments and collection surveys, supporting clients in planning care, storage, and future treatments. My reports are thorough, clearly written, and supported with high-quality images.
On-site Work
Where appropriate, I undertake treatments on-site, particularly for oversized or immobile works. I also provide installation and decant support for galleries and historic buildings.
Loans and Exhibitions
I offer pre-loan assessments, courier support, and guidance on packing and transport. I have extensive experience ensuring artworks travel and display safely.
Mentoring and Training
I provide training and mentoring for staff, students, and volunteers, and regularly share insights on painting conservation techniques and preventive care.
‘Dundee from Tayport’ by Joseph Milne (1885)
‘Prometheus’ Attributed to Luca Giordano
Biography
Henry Matthews ACR
Henry Matthews is an Accredited Conservator-Restorer with extensive experience in easel painting conservation. He trained at the University of Northumbria (MA Conservation of Easel Paintings) and has since treated works from across five centuries. He began his career at the Walker Art Gallery and co-founded the private practice Egan, Matthews & Rose. He now works independently and in partnership with institutions, combining practical skill with an academic interest in cleaning systems and large-scale paintings.
Client testimonials
Henry’s expertise and professionalism were evident throughout the conservation of several paintings in our historic collection. His reports were clear, well-illustrated, and grounded in sound judgement. The treatments were sensitively executed, enhancing the legibility of the works while preserving their authenticity. We were particularly impressed by his care with complex varnish removal and structural issues. I would not hesitate to recommend him to any institution seeking specialist support with easel paintings.
Dr Joanna Linton
Curator of Collections, Inverforth Gallery
We entrusted Henry with the restoration of a much-loved Victorian portrait that had darkened over generations. He was patient and thorough in explaining the work, and the transformation was simply extraordinary. The painting is now vibrant and clear, yet nothing feels overdone—it still retains its age and charm. We’re deeply grateful for the care and respect shown to both the artwork and its sentimental value. Highly recommended.
Isabel Fenwick
Private client, Edinburgh
Henry provided on-site conservation of two altar paintings as part of our wider church restoration. His calm and considered approach made him a pleasure to work with, and he worked seamlessly around other contractors and the public. The results have brought new life to the artworks and have been widely praised by the congregation and visitors. His knowledge of materials, methods, and heritage settings is exceptional.
Tom MacLeod
Conservation Project Lead, St Alban’s Church