Category Archives: Preventive Conservation

What is Art Conservation?

In his Theory of Restoration,  Cesare Brandi, an art critic, historian, and specialist in art conservation/restoration, describes art conservation as "the methodological moment in which the work of art is appreciated in its material form and in its historical and aesthetic duality, with a view to transmitting it to the future". Art Conservation involves protection…
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How to take care of your collection: Just Common Sense (Part I)

In general, works of art and antiques require some special attention, preventive conservation measures, to guarantee their preservation and prevent any loss of value. Artworks and antiques are usually a combination of different materials joined together. Precisely this characteristic is what makes them fragile and susceptible to damage. Pigments, binders, varnishes and a main support –fabric…
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How to take care of your collection: Just Common Sense (Part II)

Light is also an important factor that can cause damage to your collection. As a general rule, stone, metal, glass and ceramics are not dramatically affected by light, but all organic materials, that is to say, originated from plant or animals, are susceptible to be damaged by it. Textiles become brittle, colours in woodblock prints, watercolors or miniatures fade because the particles of pigment almost without any binder are fully exposed to the light; similar effects can be observed in ethnographic objects and so on.
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