Ivory Restoration & Repair
At BAFRA, we provide access to ivory restoration and repair. Every member has been rigorously assessed and vetted. Our members are all established businesses that are fully accredited and work to the highest standards and ethics.
Ivory Restorers & Repairers at BAFRA
Due to the unique nature of ivory, which is derived from the tusks of elephants and other animals, restoration requires specialised knowledge, skills, and ethical considerations.
Ivory restoration specialists at BAFRA meticulously assess the condition of ivory objects, addressing issues such as cracks, chips, discolouration, and deterioration. Techniques may include cleaning, consolidating loose fragments, filling voids, and carefully retouching surface imperfections to match the original appearance.
If your antique piece is missing parts, they can be expertly restored to match the original tone and definition of the item as closely as possible and broken fragments can be restored with conservation-appropriate techniques. Cracks and chips in the piece can also be repaired. Restoring these missing parts returns not only the look of the piece but also the physical integrity, making ivory restoration an important factor in the preservation of ivory items.
By combining expertise with ethical practices, ivory restoration and repair ensure that these exquisite antiques continue to be appreciated for their craftsmanship and historical significance, while also contributing to the conservation of endangered species.
Ivory Restoration FAQs
What is antique ivory restoration?
Antique ivory restoration is the meticulous process of repairing and rejuvenating ivory antiques to revive their original beauty and structural integrity. BAFRA skilled restorers employ specialised techniques to address various forms of damage, such as cracks, chips, and discolouration while ensuring ethical sourcing and compliance with regulations. By carefully cleaning, consolidating, and retouching, ivory restoration preserves the historical and cultural significance of these exquisite pieces, ensuring they can be cherished for generations to come.
What types of damage can ivory sustain?
Ivory can sustain various forms of damage, including cracks, chips, discolouration, and surface scratches. Environmental factors, improper handling, and age can contribute to structural instability and deterioration. These damages compromise the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of ivory antiques. Restoration is necessary to address these issues.
What restoration techniques are used for ivory?
Restoration techniques for ivory may include cleaning to remove dirt and grime, consolidating loose fragments, filling cracks or voids with compatible materials, retouching surface imperfections, and stabilising structural weaknesses. BAFRA restorers employ specialised tools and methods to ensure that the restoration is carried out with precision and care, reviving the splendour of ivory antiques.
Can all types of ivory be restored?
While many ivory antiques can be restored, the extent and success of restoration depend on factors such as the condition of the ivory and the type of damage. Severely damaged or degraded ivory may present some challenges in restoration.
Is ivory restoration ethical and sustainable?
Ivory restoration prioritises ethical and sustainable practices to uphold the conservation of endangered species and the ethical treatment of wildlife. BAFRA restoration specialists adhere to regulations governing the trade and use of ivory, advocating for ethical sourcing and sustainable materials. By promoting the use of alternative materials and supporting conservation efforts, ivory restoration aims to minimise the demand for new ivory while preserving the cultural and historical significance of existing antiques in an environmentally responsible manner.
Is it illegal to deal in items containing ivory?
It is illegal to deal in items containing elephant ivory unless they have been registered or certified as exempt, under the Ivory Act 2018. Items made of ivory before 1918 that are of an outstandingly high artistic, cultural or historical value are also exempt. This exemption is designed to be narrow and only applies to items containing ivory that are significant to wider society. You can find more guidance on the GOV website here.
Why choose a BAFRA-accredited member to restore an antique containing ivory?
The importance of having an antique containing ivory restored by a BAFRA-accredited qualified craftsman cannot be stressed enough. There is considerable experience required behind the approach to every ivory restoration job, and particular expertise is required. There are restorers and conservators available to provide a full range of antique ivory restoration services. BAFRA members have in-depth knowledge based on more than 20 years of experience restoring, repairing and conserving antique ivory restoration.
Find BAFRA Accredited Ivory Restoration & Repair Specialists
All accredited, full members are required to have at least five years as a conservation-restoration professional (the average member today has 23 years of experience) and pass an exacting assessment on their skills, knowledge and business credentials. Our members acknowledge the importance of continuous professional development to keep abreast of advances in knowledge, skills and technical developments in ivory restoration and repair.
Find BAFRA-accredited ivory restoration specialists near you by clicking the button below and entering your postcode.