Search results

Start typing

Conservation team examining pastel out of its frame
The Conservation of Rosalba Carriera’s Pastels of the Four Seasons

Learn about the conservation of a group of four pastel paintings by Rosalba Carriera

Transport and installation

Pastels can rarely be exhibited or lent, as pastel pigment particles are extremely vulnerable to vibrations which disrupt the media. The damage to the media is not noticeable immediately but it is a cumulative form of damage that causes visible image loss over time. In order to protect these pastels during transport for exhibition installation at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, each work was placed flat, face up into a custom-made crate. The crates were padded with Plastazote® foam and equipped with a shock log to monitor vibrations during transport. Each pastel was carefully unpacked, condition checked and hung on the walls by conservators and specialist technicians.


The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.