Expert: Robert M. Vincent - 5/26/2009

Question
Dear Mr. Vincent,  I have an old oil painting that I received when my grandfather died because I had long admired it.  My grandparents were very poor and heated their home with coal so you can imagine how grimy it is. Is there any way I could clean this painting.  It has a signature but I can't make it out because it is so dirty.  The picture is a winter scene with snow, a stream and a house with lights on. I think it would be so much prettier if I could just clean it up.   Thanks for you help,  Anne

Answer
Dear Anne,

I would recommend using Winsor & Newton Artist's Picture Cleaner.  If you cannot find this product at your local art store, give Dick Blick a call, 1-800-828-4548 or you can look up this product on Dick Blick's Website:  DickBlick.com

Please do hesitate to contact me if you have any additional questions or need further informtaion.

Sincerely,
Robert M. Vincent