What is Art Conservation?Art conservation is a multidisciplinary field that centers around the long-term preservation of works of art and cultural heritage. Professionals in the field are advocates for the works they are treating and as such they abide by strict ethical standards.
<<<<
Steam cleaning the stone tesserae of an early Roman floor mosaic from the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection.
Examination and Documentation
Each treatment will be bookended by examination and documentation. The purpose of these investigations is to record a work’s condition using written and photographic documentation, which may include the results of any potential scientific analysis. Condition and justification for treatment performed should be communicated to the contemporary caretakers of a work.
Treatment
Ethical treatment steps and material use is rooted in a deep understanding of a medium and a culture that prioritizes the aesthetic, conceptual and physical characteristics of the work. The process of compensating for loss or mending breaks will strive to reversible, aesthetically appropriate and to not obstruct the work of the creative(s).
Preventive Care
Methods to have positive influence on the long-term preservation of materials, where appropriate and feasible, should be initiated by a conservator. This includes knowledge on the effects of environmental conditions, adjacent materials, handling and installation techniques, as well as the aging properties of materials.
Education
Research, analysis, experience and observations are all crucial components to the field of art conservation. Sharing of this learned information with clients, conservation personnel, students and the public promotes a higher level of understand of the methodical steps taken to preserve works of art and cultural heritage