Visual examination kicks off the art conservation process. It's all about looking closely at an object without touching it. Conservators use special lights, magnifiers, and cameras to spot every little detail and problem.
Condition assessment takes that visual info and turns it into a clear report. Using standard forms and language, conservators describe the object's overall state, pinpoint specific issues, and recommend next steps for preserving the artwork.
Visual Examination Components
Systematic Inspection Techniques
Top images from around the web for Systematic Inspection Techniques Behind the Scenes of a Special Exhibition at the Getty | Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
Thirty Years of Advancing Conservation Practice | The Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
Behind the Scenes of a Special Exhibition at the Getty | Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Systematic Inspection Techniques Behind the Scenes of a Special Exhibition at the Getty | Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
Thirty Years of Advancing Conservation Practice | The Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
Behind the Scenes of a Special Exhibition at the Getty | Getty Iris View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Visual examination initiates art object condition assessment through non-invasive, comprehensive inspection
Proper lighting enhances surface detail visibility
Raking light reveals texture and surface irregularities
Ultraviolet light exposes fluorescence indicating previous treatments or deterioration
Magnification tools enable close inspection of fine details
Loupes provide low-power magnification for overall examination
Microscopes allow high-power analysis of specific areas (paint cracks, fiber degradation)
Photographic documentation captures object's current state
Overall views document general condition
Macro images record specific areas of concern or damage (paint loss, insect damage)
Standardized checklists ensure thorough, consistent visual assessment
Include sections for structural stability, surface condition, and previous treatments
Provide space for detailed notes on specific observations
Environmental Considerations
Temperature fluctuations impact material expansion and contraction
Document current temperature and any recent significant changes
Note signs of damage from extreme temperatures (warping, cracking)
Relative humidity affects hygroscopic materials
Record current RH levels and recent fluctuations
Observe indicators of humidity-related issues (mold growth, dimensional changes)
Light exposure contributes to material degradation
Assess current light levels and cumulative exposure
Document any visible light damage (fading, embrittlement)
Air quality affects object preservation
Note presence of pollutants or particulates
Observe any corrosion or surface deposits related to air quality
Art Object Condition Assessment
Standardized Reporting Methods
Condition assessment evaluates overall preservation state using systematic approach
Standardized forms and terminology ensure clear communication among professionals
Use consistent vocabulary for damage types (abrasion, lacuna , craquelure )
Employ uniform scales for condition categorization (excellent, good, fair, poor)
Quantify extent and severity of condition issues
Use measurements for precise documentation (2cm tear, 15% paint loss)
Apply descriptive terms consistently (minor surface dirt, severe structural instability)
Distinguish between inherent vice and external damage factors
Inherent vice examples (cellulose nitrate degradation, iron gall ink corrosion)
External factors (light damage, physical impact, pest infestation)
Assessment Criteria
Structural integrity evaluation examines object's physical stability
Assess support materials for weakness or damage (canvas tears , wood warping)
Identify areas of potential failure or separation (loose joints, delamination)
Surface condition analysis focuses on visible material state
Document surface irregularities (scratches, abrasions , accretions)
Note changes in texture or appearance (blanching, efflorescence)
Color stability assessment tracks changes in pigments and dyes
Identify areas of fading or color shift
Document any visible color bleeding or transfer
Active deterioration processes require immediate attention
Recognize ongoing chemical reactions (bronze disease , silver tarnishing )
Identify active biological threats (mold growth, insect activity)
Common Art Deterioration
Material-Specific Degradation
Paintings exhibit various deterioration forms
Cracking patterns develop in paint layers (alligatoring , craquelure)
Support materials distort or fail (canvas sag , panel splits )
Works on paper face unique preservation challenges
Chemical deterioration occurs (acid hydrolysis , foxing )
Mechanical damage compromises integrity (tears, creases , losses)
Photographic materials undergo process-specific degradation
Silver mirroring affects image clarity in silver-based prints
Color photographs experience dye fading and shifting
Metals deteriorate through corrosion processes
Copper alloys develop varying patinas (green, brown, black)
Iron objects form rust through oxidation
Environmental Impact on Materials
Temperature fluctuations cause dimensional changes
Wood expands and contracts, leading to splits or warping
Paint layers separate from substrates due to differential expansion
Humidity variations affect hygroscopic materials
Paper becomes brittle in low humidity or cockles in high humidity
Organic materials (leather, ivory) crack or warp with RH changes
Light exposure initiates photochemical reactions
Textiles fade and weaken, especially silk and wool
Watercolors and other light-sensitive media lose vibrancy
Pollutants interact with object surfaces
Acidic gases corrode metals and degrade organic materials
Particulates accumulate, causing abrasion and visual obstruction
Documentation Level Determination
Object-Specific Factors
Condition severity dictates documentation depth
Excellent condition may require only basic records
Poor condition necessitates detailed reports and treatment proposals
Object significance influences documentation thoroughness
Historically important pieces warrant comprehensive documentation
Routine objects may receive standard condition notes
Conservation complexity impacts documentation needs
Simple issues (surface cleaning) require minimal documentation
Complex treatments demand extensive pre- and post-treatment records
Contextual Considerations
Intended use affects documentation requirements
Exhibition objects need detailed condition reports for loan agreements
Storage items may require periodic monitoring documentation
Active deterioration demands thorough documentation
Track changes over time with regular assessments
Document all interventions and their outcomes
Legal and insurance implications necessitate comprehensive records
New acquisitions require detailed condition documentation
Damage claims need extensive photographic and written evidence
Preventive conservation recommendations stem from documentation
Identify specific vulnerabilities (light sensitivity, climate requirements)
Propose tailored storage solutions and handling protocols