What is a Suction Table?

A low-pressure suction table is a specialist piece of equipment for conservation which allows safe and effective work to be carried out on fragile works of art. Works on canvas, textile and paper can be treated without affecting their structure or the media. A suction table is crucial for providing complex treatment to works of art on paper and paintings on canvas.

How does it work?

The table works by applying constant suction across its surface, meaning that very fragile artworks can be laid out on the table and held in place for treatment.

The suction table provides a work surface constructed from a treated ground-aluminium sheet to achieve a completely flat, smooth and secure bed on which to work. A removable viewing dome enables the conservator to create a ‘clean-room’ environment.

The table has a control system so that we can accurately measure the temperature, vacuum and humidity – all critical in conservation treatments. The suction table will be 6 x 4 feet and will last for more than 20 years.

What artworks will be saved?

Charcoal and pastel works on paper

A suction table would allow us to carry out humidification, stain removal and repairs in a controlled atmosphere without potentially damaging or breaking the fragile media layer. The object is held by the light suction, and any distortions are corrected. As we don’t have a suction table, currently our pastels collections are not treated if the paper support requires extensive repair.

Drying and pressing works on paper

Works such as architectural drawings and Japanese prints can be washed and reassembled whilst being ‘held’ over the large surface at low suction. Controlled drying can also be employed for repair de-laminating paint layers, along with a nebuliser and relaxation of the parchment.

Lining oil paintings and works on paper

A suction table would enable us to apply sensitive and flexible linings to the backs of delicate works. The suction and controlled drying functions can be used to help bond the object to the lining canvas or paper using less adhesive.

Solvent application

A suction table would allow us to apply solvents more accurately to works when restoring them. As well as helping to apply solvents, the suction table would also let us remove solvents efficiently. Many of the solvents we use contain enzymes and need to be applied at certain temperatures. The heated table means that we would be able to use these solvents to their full potential.

Improved repair

The suction table would help us with other treatment techniques by speeding up and controlling the drying process. Pulp infills could be applied to missing areas of works on paper – the fibres of the pulp are drawn through the suction table and adhere to the edge of the gap, creating a new area of paper. Moisture can be used to correct distorted oil paintings on canvas, improving their condition and appearance. A suction table would also give our curators access to new treatment options.

Image © Willard Conservation Equipment Ltd