Bernard Buffet (1928–1999) was a French Expressionist painter known for his graphic, figurative compositions and distinctive elongated forms, he developed a highly recognizable visual language marked by somber tonalities, flattened spatial construction, and emotional intensity.

The treatment was requested by a Parisian Art Gallery due to the presence of several medium-sized yellow-brown stains that disrupted the visual harmony of the composition. A detailed study of the artist’s technique was conducted prior to treatment. Examination included visual inspection under magnification, ultraviolet light analysis and targeted diagnostic investigation.

The discolored areas were not later additions, but rather part of an original, slightly warm-toned varnish layer applied by the artist himself. Over time, this coating had oxidized, darkening unevenly and producing localized tonal imbalance. Treatment included a controlled surface cleaning to remove accumulated grime and a gradual reduction and modulation of the oxidized varnish while preserving the artist’s intended tonal warmth.

The composition regained clarity and tonal unity without compromising the intentional material character of the work.