Charts the practices and underlying philosophies of conservation and restored works of art from the Middle Ages to the end of the nineteenth century. This book provides readers with contextualising introductions, bibliography of original sources and archival material and a glossary of terms as well a biographical details.

Recent publications indicate that there is a great need for people writing on the subject to be aware of material which is not in their mother tongue: approaches presented as new are in fact merely contemporary, and have been discussed or practiced in other centuries and countries. Just as knowledge of practices and effects of art conservation and restoration should form an integral part of History of Art Degrees, the more theoretic, abstract and historical aspects, should also be part of the training.This book is an invaluable source for academic and public institutions, art historians as well as practicing conservators and lovers of art. This is the only book in English dealing with the history of conservation and restoration of works of art. It is translated by a practising restorer who has lectured widely on the subject to professional and student audiences, as well as the general public. It provides readers with contextualising introductions, extensive bibliography of original sources and archival material and a glossary of terms as well a biographical details.

Preface Introductory essay Translator's note
Acknowledgements
Chapter I
Towards restoration Chapter II Conservation of works of art in the sixteenth century Chapter III
Some local traditions in Italy Chapter IV
Gallery pictures Chapter V
Eighteenth century restorations in Italy and France Chapter VI
Venice and Pietro Edwards Chapter VII
From the eighteenth to the nineteenth century Chapter VIII
Restoration from the Academies to Romanticism Chapter IX
Restoration in Italy after the Unification Final essay A serene vision of the relationship between material and image by Massimo Ferretti
Bibliography Index of names
Index of place names and works Glossary of technical terms (with diagrams)