A painting is not merely an image that can be reproduced in a book, magazine or on a screen. Every picture belonging to the Ferens is a physical object that needs care and expertise to ensure its survival for future generations.

The conservation of artworks is a unique discipline that requires creativity, painstaking practical skills and extensive scientific knowledge, as well as an understanding of the philosophical and ethical decisions that need to be made for every project. This exhibition will present a revealing look at the ‘alchemy’ involved in the conservator’s art, centred around: Johann Zoffany’s Robert Baddeley as Moses in Sheridan’s ‘The School for Scandal’, c1781, oil on panel. This work was Accepted by HM Government in Lieu of Inheritance Tax and allocated to the Ferens Art Gallery in 2024. The Friends of the Ferens have generously agreed to fund the restoration of this work, which presents an excellent opportunity to document the conservation treatment every step of the way and give visitors a fascinating insight into the complex processes involved. Alongside this painting will be further detailed case studies, including little-seen works on paper, whose post-conservation transformation will be explored and celebrated.  

Find out how you can support the gallery to conserve, restore and care for the amazing collections we hold for the city of Hull.