Preventive conservation

A well-conserved object keeps its value and its legibility. Preventive conservation aims to avoid damage rather than repair it.

Who it is for

• Owners of sculptures, masks, textiles and composite objects.
• Collectors who display at home.
• Heirs taking charge of objects without knowing their needs.

How it works

1. Observation of condition and environment: light, humidity, temperature, insects.
2. Recommendations for handling, display and storage.
3. If necessary: referral to a conservator and vigilance over the level of intervention.

What you receive

• A short condition report with photographs.
• Practical recommendations suited to your living setting.
• A list of recommended providers. Restorers of wooden objects, textiles and paintings are recommended according to the material.

A few simple principles

• Avoid direct light, heat sources and damp.
• Handle with clean hands, without gripping fragile parts.
• Do not apply household products, wax or varnish without advice.
• Keep, without discarding, fragments, labels and documents.

Any restoration influences the reading and value of the object: it should be documented and, as far as possible, reversible.

Limits and precautions

• The practice does not replace a qualified conservator.
• Old materials may be fragile or contain treated substances: take care when handling.
• An undocumented restoration may affect the opinion of authenticity: see authentication.