Oil Painting Facial Reconstruction - Lifting The Veil

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With half of her face missing it's almost impossible to see the young woman as anything other than damaged, broken and perhaps too far gone for repair. Through the process of conservation and restoration we're able to undo that damage, return her to a proud state, enable the artist's vision to reign; work that results in lifting the veil.
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[@Drew_Snydermann]

Who else thought that greenish rectangle was part of the painting, not just dirt?

[@neyphutapie]

Yep, came here to comment this, I thought that was part of the background lol I was shocked when it came off

[@HidingAllTheWay]

The fact that there *is* green background in the painting around the face made it extra confusing.

[@caodesignworks2407]

I didn't as I worked with a lot of old art before and it's a sign this painting was under a mat in a frame at one point in it's life, but I was deeply concerned that the paint layer was forever tarnished from it. Watching it come off like that was so relieving

[@kyratango3800]

Indeed, I think it was part of it, not dirt or aging...😐

[@treytrip8]

@@caodesignworks2407 Yes! I still have the elaborate mat, but it's too damaged and dirty to reuse. I'm just keeping it as part of the painting's history.

[@86fifty]

Oooh, very smart idea, to have the client record a bit of audio explaining the background of this piece! Totally understandable that most people are not gonna wanna be on camera (I know I wouldn't), but recording a voice clip is a great middle-ground choice! I hope this can be done again in future vids!

[@sugandspice9397]

I agree, I really liked hearing a bit of backstory directly from the client. You can tell how much it meant to him

[@wurfel42]

Lovely to hear the client at the start of the video, you can really understand what it means to have this done well.

[@vincevdijk7430]

AI voice....

[@I_am_Lauren]

@@vincevdijk7430 It's not AI, the quality of the voice is worse because it is probably a voicemail recording.

[@realrebelli0n]

@@vincevdijk7430 To think that a high quality art restoration channel, run by a highly skilled and authentic person, who has proven himself time and time again and who will keep being successful and appreciated just by not fooling around, would just randomly use an AI voice, is astonishing.

[@solanoemiliobarbosa7453]

Voicemail lol. Are you in the 90's ???

[@stephanieparker1250]

I agree, I loved that!

[@Stephen_Lafferty]

4:39 - I love seeing Kit cuddling the doggy! :D

[@sarahlogan2075]

Hi, Kit! Great to see you.

[@parkermae]

that was so quick! nice catch

[@Stephen_Lafferty]

@@parkermae Thank you! I thought that other people would like to see it! :D

[@titrimetry]

Thank you! I would have missed this without your comment

[@ianbeex1956]

i used to watch all of ur videos before college, i love them, now i can proudly say that i'm at my fourth year studying restoration! i truly love it and you inspired me to make that decision, thank you

[@feather314]

I am interested in pursuing this as a career too. Do you have any tips or would you be willing to share a little bit about your journey so far so I can have an example of how it might look?

[@ianbeex1956]

@@feather314 sure! i don't know if i have useful tips, but it's important to keep and open mind like, when restoring something or planning a restoration, think more than one solution, make tests before applying the treatments, think what's best for the artwork, and enjoy! it truly is a beautiful career!

[@pyroanimus]

Perfect timing 😃 It's 12:01 (midnight) here, just in time to watch as I fall asleep (then rewatch anything I miss in the morning) 😊 Also wow I had the first comment!

[@TheYakousei]

You said it :D

[@plumbum8284]

Yooo same here

[@xxdlfmak]

Sameee 😂

[@marwanmohammad7863]

This is so me rn

[@HenrietteAndersen26]

I know, his voice is SO soothing 😁👍

[@TwinIonEngines]

It is said that a person has two deaths. Once when they pass away, and again when the last person to remember them is also gone. Thank you for continuing to ensure that, while these people have gone from this world, they continue to live on in our memories and thoughts, and through the appreciation of what they left behind, now preserved to be remembered for decades to come at least. I know it may sound cliché or downright embarrassing, but it brings me immense, emotionally charged, joy knowing these people won't be lost to time yet. Like tears in the rain.

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

I’ve always heard it slightly different. “Your first death is the day your body dies and your second death is the last time someone says your name.” For that reason, if you find yourself in a cemetery, it’s good to speak the names on the stones as you go by.❤️🐝🤗

[@user-hm6bn6kw6k]

If you create a work of art, or write a poem, short story or book--those are other ways to achieve immortality. And what about being a teacher?

[@FlowersInHisHair]

So nice to hear the client appreciating the result!

[@Skirt553]

I love how even up close, you can't see the damage once it's been retouched. That's the mark of a true expert.

[@marthaanderson2656]

I am glad you mentioned the complexity of the background. When we were watching the cleaning I noticed the very slight greenish hue on the right. I started thinking it was some organic residue of the barn environment or an aging effect, but see that it was a way the artist added depth and contrast for the reds and the earring.

[@auntkaz815]

The backstory is everything. Family and childhood memories are priceless. That’s what this painting meant to the owner. I’m so glad you were able to preserve and restore that for him.

[@sarahleonard7309]

Intellectually, I know it's all solid methodical technique. But emotionally? This is magic!

[@Koffeinsuechtigi]

This sounds to me like this is a life long dream coming true for this client, I can imagine them looking at the painting in the barn as a kid, liking it and wondering what it would look like if it was complete, then, when circumstances led to it, the painting moved from the barn to them, but the dream remained.. Now they had the financial stability and situation that allowed them to give the painting to someone who would be able to fulfill that long-held dream. It's amazing work that in contexts like these is about so much more than "just" restoring a painting...

[@TrabberShir]

How many other people were shocked to see that the dark rectangle was grime and not part of the original painting when he started the cleaning?

[@anna9072]

Lovely. It may be “advertising art”, but the artist did a superb job of capturing the sense of anticipation and eagerness.

[@arudanel5542]

pretty sure I've seen this picture in some of my Grandfather's old Geographics, way back. That, or one just like it. It was an herb tea brand iirc, but it was over 40 years ago. so.. might be off. Or just a picture very similar to it.

[@dancooperish]

I wonder if it's possible to watch these in reverse, to see Julian carefully and painstakingly ruin a beautiful painting.

[@youtubiuttoni]

This is just amazing! I know new and shinny things can be attractive, but please don’t ever stop doing these kind of videos. They are your bread and butter and what brought you here, and we love bread and butter. I could watch hundreds of these and not get tired. Thank you again for all this amazing content. Cheers from Brazil!

[@kimhenry5658]

Also, cheers from Tasmania. 😊

[@sueladybird6923]

And a huge thanks from Far North Queensland too🤗

[@amazinggrace5692]

“Good job, Washi Kozo!” Washi Kozo smiles. 🙂

[@ChrisMusty]

I know you repeat your methods every episode but I love hearing how its done. Your voice is soothing and I find myself in a position appreciating art I have never even given a second thought about. Thankyou for the awareness and entertainment.

[@phyllisstrider2998]

When the client thanked you at the end, I teared up. I just love your videos and can hardly wait for the next one to show up. Thank you for sharing.

[@memoriam.victoriam]

Hearing the stories behind the paintings just itch my brain I love when the owners have a part in the video

[@Fukumen-hamstar]

多分、１回目の投稿からみてます。 絵画の修復に、「和紙」は欠かせない道具ですね。 胸元の肌色、レースの白が出てきた時は感動しました。そして「絶対音感」と同じ様に「絶対色覚」があると毎回思います。たくさんの絵画が生まれ変われますように。😊

[@DipityS]

I'm so happy this gentleman got to have this connection to his childhood and family and his burgeoning love of art - back whole and so beautifully put together.

[@Bruuner]

I love that you included the client intro and reaction! So many times I’ve wondered what the client thought when all was said and done.

[@tayrou7395]

Hearing the client story really makes this so much more special

[@lorriedmussett4692]

Your addition of the owner at the start and end of this was awesome! If we had just a few more people this happy whether as an owner, viewer or conservator , we'll our world would be a much MUCH happier place. Thx you Julian and the owner for sharing this with us!

[@treytrip8]

I'm the owner and lending my voice was nerve-wracking! BUT, my words are heart-felt and my reaction is in real-time. As soon as I saw her, I recorded! :)

[@blakjak6]

I'm just kind of a blue-collar barbarian so i've got a generally dull eye limited to "O that's nice 8]" when it comes to fine art, wine, music, etc, but as craftsman, i feel so much joy seeing the intricacy of the restoral. At face value, the piece is usually lost on me, but i can deeply resonate with the sadness of a broken thing, the zen of the work to repair, and the joy of seeing it fixed. your videos have been the vehicle that actually helps me appreciate paintings that i would otherwise look right past, thank you so much.

[@colleenmahony8803]

Did anyone ever find out if this WAS advertising art, and what it was advertising? She's beautiful!❤️

[@treytrip8]

I've done a cursory image search on her, but it didn't generate a match. I don't know if she really is advertising art, but she has that look and I'd buy whatever she was advertising! :D

[@damogranheart5521]

​@@treytrip8Well done, ye!

[@stereonacht2247]

If I were to guess, I'd say either a milliner, or the jeweler. Could be some beauty product or medicine, too. If you do an image search for "victorian advertising art", you'll see how disconnected the image can be with the product. The ideas seems to be about attracting the eye with some beautiful picture, then have them read the product's name. I am no fine artist, and I am half-curious about how the initial painting would be turned into an ad. I do know sometimes the ad is painted on the canvas, but would it be possible to reproduce the art and add the advertisement afterward? Without colour photos, was it another artist "dissecting" the art and reproducing it through silk screening or something like that? Anyway. More questions, while I provided no answers.

[@Stephen_Lafferty]

The quality of your documentary making improves with every episode, Julian! I love the addition of the voice notes from the owner to bookend the video - hearing the emotional impact of your work on them in their response is a perfect ending! I also love the editing styles - jump cuts when you are arranging your cleaning supplies really hit that 'tooling up' moment in action films when you're about to start work! The soft wipes from the start to the final product are always my cue to applaud your excellent efforts :D

[@brendapatterson7123]

How is it I have watched you restore many many paintings and yet each is as fascinating as the last? Thank you!

[@lightninghmmbug6232]

Half past 3 here in England. Perfect timing to watch with a cup of tea and the rare afternoon sun 🌞

[@heehoopeanut420]

Maybe we should trade, I'm in the southern US and had to have my morning coffee inside because it was already so hot out😂

[@vflytrap7158]

11:45am here in Oakville, Ontario, Canada having a cappuccino beautiful sunny day here, supposed to get up to 30C this afternoon, cheers! ☕️

[@lightninghmmbug6232]

@@heehoopeanut420 I don't know how you guys cope with it over there, 😂 I suppose as AC is a general main stay and you don't have houses built to keep heat in. I'd get used to it as long as I was outside doing something heartfelt. Thank you for your reply 😊

[@lightninghmmbug6232]

@@vflytrap7158 thank you for your reply. I think Canada is more my speed temperature wise. I don't feel the cold so as long as I can bask in the light I'm happy to also enjoy my hoodie. 😊 Greetings from Brighton UK to everyone 😄

[@damogranheart5521]

​@lightninghmmbug6232 I live in Minnesota, and I am happiest when the weather is cooler. It is much easier to do heavy-duty chores or work for longer periods of time. Blessings on you and your endeavors!🫖📚🐈‍⬛🏕🖖

[@silvialittlewolf]

That is such a beautiful painting! Whoever the lady was, she was gorgeous!

[@Jeff-uy8xg]

Came for the washi kozo, stayed for the amazing craftsmanship!

[@pattyhullen9018]

I like hearing your client tell the story of this piece and I love hearing his comments after completion. Thanks Julian, I truly enjoy your videos, Patricia.

[@timothy4664]

That's a really lovely painting. Satie 2nd Gymnopedie. Interesting choice Julian.

[@Kirbyfan87827]

And then Gymnopedie No. 1 during the retouching. One of my favorite pieces, very appreciated, Julian!

[@549RR]

Do you mean *interesting choice* in that the pacing felt weirdly dissonant, contrasting to the pace of his accelerated actions?

[@TheMachoman94]

Satie is the perfect addition to any melancholy

[@amcconnell6730]

I love these videos. They tick so many boxes. A relaxing commentary. Highly skilled work. The return of something lost to something beautiful. I have seen so many now, that it's a bit like "Baumgartner Bingo" - Hot table treatment? Tick. An adhesive impregnation? Tick. A Bridging hole repair? Tick. A Strip lining? Tick. An Isolation layer? Bingo!

[@geniestotz2240]

Love the cleaning process it’s as though the painting was dead and you brought her back to life.

[@ChaoThing]

Having the client take part in this ongoing process is very wise, thank you for this insight.

[@ceciliakeller957]

wanted to say thank you - I started a collections internship today and Julien was one of the first people to get me interested in the more "backstage" aspects of art and museum work. I'm so so excited to, all this time later, start working in this wonderful little world!

[@SceneArtisan]

4:39 = Kat hugging dog! I never thought I'd be saying that on a high quality painting restoration video! :D Go Kat! :D

[@ellaisplotting]

Kit.

[@nims1939]

I loved that the owner gave us background story of the painting and how they reacted to being restored. I hope you can have more owners do this. It make the painting change from paint on canvas to something that is real. if that makes senses. ❤

[@PETEOU812]

It’s almost like you went back in time and prevented the damage from happening. You’re truly an artist at what you do.

[@Narrendor]

I LOVE how the client talked about this painting - I can feel the pride and joy in his voice both before and after its restoration. And what a beautiful painting! Lovely work, Julian.

[@TheKeystoneChannel]

I always love to hear the clients' comment before and after, that makes it even more satisfying, as we already know your magic , Julian, and still love to watch it, it still makes it a nice addition to the results!

[@ulliulli]

What I find so exciting about these restorations is the individual perspective on certain parts of the restoration, in this case the retouching of the face. I sat there, watched the video and just thought to myself "that ear looks wrong". Then I blinked and said "Wow, the ear fits the picture perfectly!". The same with the face color etc. "That looks flat!" - Two brushstrokes later - "You can see the correction!" - Quickly blinked - "Wow, that looks fantastic". The own mind is tricky

[@lindaclose4370]

It is fantastic when you have the owners of the paintings reactions to your brilliant work

[@Hidegety1]

Client commentary was a really nice touch. It tightens the loose ends that are almost always there.

[@barbaramullin5182]

I love the addition of the client. Another layer to the enjoyment I get watching your videos.

[@robertoPreusser]

Es ist einfach nur schön zuzusehen wie alte Bilder wieder zum Leben erwachen . Ich als Maler ( canaletto von striesen) bin begeistert und dankbar für seine ganzen Arbeiten

[@hernanhernandez6567]

I love the time lapse clock on the video now too! It's a great way to see how much time in reality you really spend doing what you do!

[@Ohwhale79]

Ooooo, I LOVE the client's narration at the beginning! Nice touch!!!!!!

[@ariwizzard]

apart from a tiny bit on the cheek and eye, this might be the best/fastest retouching i’ve seen in a while… julian nailed every color

[@robynpitman9605]

Just what I needed after a bad day. Now I know I can get to sleep after watching your video. It calms my anxiety and helps me relax. Thanks Julian 😴

[@pencilriot]

erik satie is always the best soundtrack ❤ what a lovely painting!

[@TheArmase]

I absolutely love hearing from the owners. Some of these works of art are like another child to some of these owners. Great to see someone's love get renewed. Will be waiting for your next one!

[@triplex86]

Yet another magnificent restoration from Julian - truly superb work. And yes, having the client voice a few words at the start and end is a nice touch. Thank you for uploading the video.

[@nuancedmusings-ronneefullerton]

Great restoration on this image that is nostalgic and full of hope for your client. The client's perspective added so much to explaining your purpose and the care you have taken on this project.

[@nenadonex]

This is the first restoration work I've ever seen, where even on very close inspection the retouched areas are practically invisible. Incredible job and as the owner said a perfect job!

[@exceptnot]

I've been watching your videos for years. I love how you narrate what you're doing, what's been done in the past, and why you choose to do what you do to repair. You're so humble, yet have stunning skills but do not hesitate to share any mistakes you make. Thank you for your work and energy into the world. :)

[@gameovr17]

I can't imagine there's anyone else out there that's better than you at this incredible job

[@TheKayc136]

Absolutely amazing! When you were retouching her face it was almost like you were washing white off her face! Revealing a beautiful peach like skin underneath. It was exquisite retouching..as always! You can hear hiw overjoyed your client is. Not only have you restored his painting, it you have restored a precious part of his younger life, including memories of his grandma. You truly are a genius x

[@ahemharlowe4891]

I'm always in awe at your ability to match color.

[@thetomatomonster11]

I love this style of having the client narrate the background story first! I love how creative you always are Julian! I've been subscribed to this channel for a few years ever since that video that went wild but it's so crazy how long its been since that. I go off track and get obsessed in a different genre of videos here and now but I always come back.

[@Silvershadowfire]

I love that painting and how much your work brought it back to life. The strong lines of her face and the vibrancy of the colours is something that your work brought back to the fore. Well done

[@PaxPixie7]

I enjoyed hearing the client’s comments. You can really hear the joy, admiration, and relief in his voice.

[@treytrip8]

YES!!!

[@EricSwanson-bs1rx]

This man is a living Content Aware Fill. Love watching him fill in paintings. Such skill

[@AnonYMous-pv3py]

You are exceptionally skilled and you explain your process thoroughly. Even on extreme damage you have a lightness of touch and leave an imperceptible trace.

[@RicksterX-92fs]

That intro was spot on. It was interesting and different. You outdid yourself creating that one. Also outstanding was the restoration. I’d say that ranks high as one of the best transitions and masterful retouching pieces I’ve seen in a while.

[@OBIOsim]

Wow...what a beautiful little work of art! I wish modern advertising looked as splendid as this little lady. I have an advertising lithograph for Pear's Soap from the late 1880s...the only piece of "fine art" that I own....and I adore the artistry and majesty depicted in that piece. Thanks to your skills and talent, the splendor of this little jewel will remain to be enjoyed for generations to come.

[@katew3818]

Love having the owners comments at the beginning and end.

[@josephprimavera2545]

Your ability to match colors always astounds me. Congratulations on another exquisite conservation.

[@nelsoncollier]

I am glad there are people like you in the world.

[@arudanel5542]

Every time Julian takes out that weight, I get a warm feeling. So good to see something a fan made that turned out to be so useful, it's almost as much a part of a Baumgartner video as the table at this point! Job well done!

[@Stopthisrightnow560]

Hearing both you and Kit, and then your clients, talk about art is so beautiful. ❤

[@asjaasja7642]

Now she is bright and full of life❤

[@joannetutor4051]

What a treasure you have brought back! I love watching your videos and it was so nice to hear the client speak. As usual, can’t wait for the next adventure ❤

[@michelleshaffer8579]

I enjoyed hearing the before and after commenting from the client! I always wanted to know what they think of how it has come out. Did it meet their expectations! Thank you for that!

[@treytrip8]

It met all my expectations and more- I couldn't be happier with her!

[@Scott-ll2rl]

Stunning workmanship J!!! I always hope to hear owner's comments, so this was very satisfying to watch and hear.

[@matt.2020]

The way you brought that face back together is amazing. So satisfying to watch. Thank you Julian.

[@pigskinfanboy]

I really enjoy the clients thoughts before and after. My own thoughts are that this really turned out beautiful. I’m amazed while watching you touch up the face how everything just seems to fall into place as you make tiny adjustments. This one was even more intriguing because I have a few of my grandmothers paintings that were stored in an outbuilding . Who knows one day I may have to ship them off to you 😅. Your skill and workmanship is just incredible and I truly enjoy every video. Thank you Julian !!

[@euchrideucrow1970]

I agree with your client, it is a beautiful portrait and you did a fantastic job. She’s got such a beautiful face and expression, it’s just wonderful.

[@Gelb65]

I love this painting. I am glad it is a painting rather than a paper. Your work is my favorite of all the restorers I see on KZbin.

[@federicoprice2687]

I'm over the moon with happiness having watched this meticulous and respectful restoration from trash to treasure. Marvellous, yet again! As a professional art restorer myself, I admire your work! Mines not bad, but my retouching often attracts complaints. Perhaps it's because I'm colour blind... 😊

[@cwpinti]

Great restoration of a barn stored painting, so any of these get tossed away. Loved to hear the client intro & reaction to your finished work.

[@emmabroughton2039]

She is beautiful. Another marvellous restoration, thank you Julian.

[@daniellehardenberg2745]

The work you do is so incredible. Every work of art an adventure you you us on... You don't just clean and restore, you unveil the soul of the artworks

[@fredadufaur2218]

A joyful journey today, thank you. Like many, loved hearing the owner’s memories and hopes.

[@angiadcock8196]

No matter how many times I watch you put the canvas back on the stretcher it’s still so satisfying every time.

[@pattimessenger6214]

Another painting restored to its former glory! Great job!

[@mental_general4092]

im not smart enough to explore the concept, but i really think there's something to be said about the fact that this "advertisement" has lasted as long as it has and is valued because of the artists work. I wonder in 200 years how our own advertisements of this era will be viewed by people of future, and what they will find value in.

[@laurendiscoli7669]

Wow. The retouching work on this painting has really blown me away. It's like, poof, damage gone. I'm always so impressed with the work you do!

[@mohirender]

It never gets old watching you restore paintings

[@catecook7819]

I’d love o see a two hour version of this, without the cleaning part being speeded up, and with closer up camera work of the cleaning. I love watching the process so much as long as it has gorgeous haunting soft piano music. Thank you so much for these fabulous videos, I have learnt so much art restoration from you Julian. And you are my go-to for bedtime relaxation.

[@tuffymartinez]

Thank You Julian, Thank You Kit ( I see you in the background )... Soooo much fun for me to see 4 of my Waldo's working. This is just a wonderful way to start my week. Job well done.... TM

[@Mtlmshr]

I started watching restoration type videos a few months ago and your videos are far and away the best ones out there and I believe that’s because of not only you but how you do things as well. Everyone I watch are very good at what they do however you are just that little bit better!

[@tangarov27]

Usually I like when you bring the painting back to how it was intended by artist, but this particular painting was so beautiful after cleaning with this aged marks and damage of time, which makes it time art as it self. .. And I understood how handy that you not just retouch it but also make a video so anyone can see and also enjoy any particular stage of painting existence. And I just don’t know why but it works to me with this time damage more despite your great retouching job done even when I usually like it

[@andreah9652]

That moment where you're questioning the paint matching and then that first perfect blend hits.... the dopamine hit is something else!!

[@Cello-Pam]

I think I've watched all of your videos and I never get tired of you explaining the basics

[@stickylolly]

Loved hearing your clients voice .. love putting the story to the voice ❤

[@sandramajowicz5844]

When you are retouching, the paint seems to disappear, which I know is your aim, but it seems like magic to me! Wonderful!