Innovatív eszközfejlesztés a magyar közkincsek megmentéséért. Mágnesprés a restaurálás szolgálatában

Magnetic press in the service of restoration The most common method for correcting the deformations in the canvas of paintings and the paint layers is pressing, which allows the layers to be reshaped. Until now, this usually involved transporting the damaged artwork to a studio, laying it on a table, and applying pressure using weights to restore its surface. However, in situ treatment represents a considerably faster, more convenient, and safer option as it eliminates the need to move the artwork – an approach foreign colleagues increasingly prefer due to the reduced risk of damage. This advancement has become possible through the magnetic press, a new tool developed in Hungary that enables the treatment of surface damage (dents, canvas deformations, gaps, crumbling, etc.) while the painting remains in a vertical position. The paper reviews the research, tests, and investigations conducted during the development of the device. A grant from the Hungarian state made more extensive research possible. Various prototypes were created to explore the capabilities and limitations of the magnetic press. Since the device was designed for treating artworks, it was important to eliminate all potential risks, including sharp edges and corners, excessive pressure, uneven surface contact, etc. The human factor remains essential in using the device. In every case, a restoration specialist assesses the condition of the painting, estimates the maximum safe pressure, identifies weak points based on expertise and experience, and selects the device with appropriate strength to ensure the safety of the artwork.