The practice was set up over 25 years ago by Alex Seth-Smith, following work as a peripatetic conservator to broaden her conservation experience post training. Contracts were undertaken at The British Museum, Maritime Museum and National Trust, in addition to working in France and Dublin.
Since its inception, The Textile Conservancy has conserved a wide range of textile objects from period costume collections, including military uniforms, historic interiors, regimental banners and tapestries.
The practice is based in an idyllic rural setting on the Kent – East Sussex border. However, our clients come from all over the UK and we have also conserved textiles that have been sent to us from as far afield as America and New Zealand.
Alex Seth-Smith is an accredited conservator, having been awarded this recognized standard of conservation practice by the Institute of Conservation in 2003.
In the Spring of this year a new exhibition opened at the London residence of the Dukes of Wellington, Apsley House. It marks the first time that several of the 1st Duke of Wellington’s dress uniforms have been placed on display. The conservation and preparation of the five military jackets and headwear was carried out by The Textile Conservancy.
The advent of this unique occasion was acknowledged across social media, including a feature in The Times newspaper and Country Life magazine.
To find out more about this exclusive conservation project, go the Projects and click on the photograph of the captivating display.
Since 2003, Alex Seth-Smith has been an Accredited Member of Icon (ACR) which implements standards for the care of our cultural heritage across a range of disciplines.
Each month, the practice offers a free half-hour consultation on the last Friday afternoon for anyone would has a query regarding an object.
Please contact the conservation studio to make an appointment.
