The field of Art Conservation is devoted to the preservation of cultural materials for the future. Conservation activities include examination, documentation, treatment, and preventive care, supported by research and education. Art conservation is not identical to art restoration. Restoration is a process that attempts to return the work of art to some previous state considered to be "original", which might involve permanent removal or alteration of extant original materials, such as stripping and refinishing furniture. Conservation developed from a concept that is more concerned with preserving the original elements of an artwork for the future, and less with making it look pristine. Art conservation often involves cleaning, stabilization, and visual integration of losses. All conservation procedures are fully documented, alterations should be clearly distinguishable from the original object or specimen, and ideally, any process used is non-destructive and reversible... departures from that ideal not being undertaken lightly.



