Page 11 - V1_2020-Fall-Winter Magazine

Perseverance,

preservation,

& Porsche

Like appraising a work of art, conservation requires a depth The Fine Arts Conservancy developed a bespoke sealed system
of knowledge not only regarding a particular artist or their for the piece, ensuring the interior micro-climate remains
history, but their preferred techniques and the specific a stable level of humidity—unaffected by the surrounding
chemistry of the materials and media utilized during their environment—and halting any further deterioration of the 132
period. Proper conservation can take months due to the year-old paper.
delicate and detailed approach required, as well as the
industry ethics standard requiring all work to be reversible Of course, Braman Motorcars mirrors this same attention to
so as to protect the integrity of the original piece. The Fine detail and dedication in doing whatever is necessary for clients.
Arts Conservancy’s reputation for excellence in the field These shared sentiments contributed in part to Laney and
has resulted in the team being entrusted with works from Gordon purchasing their jet black Porsche Panamera. Perhaps
preeminent international museums and galleries like the better than most, Laney and Gordon can appreciate the
National Academy of Design in New York. expertise of the Porsche West Palm Beach service and support
team. As active and appreciative Club Braman members
Hundreds of years of poor previous restoration efforts are only themselves, the pair plan to continue to partner with Braman
one of the challenges that Laney and Gordon face. Fungus Motorcars for future events.
and mold; humidity and heat; light; pollution and wear from
sloppy transportation all have detrimental effects on the often Still, unlike vehicle maintenance—no matter how
delicate media. Solutions require intense organization, and at specialized—Laney admits that their profession allows only
times, creativity. Recently, a watercolor depicting Napoleon at one shot to get things right. It makes for exhilarating work
the Battle of Friedland was brought in. The oil version of the on a daily basis, and the Fine Arts Conservancy has firmly
same painting is featured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. established itself as peerless in the industry. It’s a bar Braman
Motorcars plans to emulate as the decades—and with luck,
centuries— continue on.

To learn more about the Fine Arts Conservancy,
visit Art-Conservation.org.

CONVENTIONAL WISDOM HOLDS THAT the older and more expensive the vehicle, the more expertise required
to care for and maintain it. Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Porsche owners accept this obligation as they receive the
keys to their dream automobiles; an expected sacrifice for the privilege of owning one of the finest products in
the world.

Of course, much of this upkeep is covered under warranty, and few will own their chosen chariots for
decades—much less centuries. However, such is the challenge faced by Laney and Gordon Lewis, owners of the
Fine Arts Conservancy. Preserving near-priceless works of art takes an immense amount of time, effort, and
resources, because—as any amateur collector quickly learns—condition is everything.

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