Restoration and conservation: what to expect

Conservation stabilises a work and slows its decay. Restoration repairs damage so the work reads as intended. Good practice favours the least intervention, and changes that a later conservator can undo.

Before work begins

Ask for a written condition report with photographs, a description of the treatment, the materials, the time and the fee. Keep a copy with the work's record on OxiArt: restoration is part of a work's history.

Choosing a conservator

Look for training, experience with your kind of work (canvas, wood, bronze, textile, paper) and references. Authorised conservators are listed under Partners; restoration services are bought on Oxishops.

After treatment

Record what was done. A buyer, insurer or appraiser will ask.