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The process of reconstructing lacunae in a painting to allow a damaged work to be seen in its original form. Applicable mostly for small areas of loss.

The process of removing old varnish that has yellowed or degraded to restore the original colors of the painting. It should be done carefully to avoid damage to the original paint layers.

The careful application of paint to restored areas to blend them with the surrounding original paint and unify the painting's appearance.

The addition of a protective board on the reverse of a painting to guard against mechanical damage, environmental fluctuations, and pests.

The controlled exposure of a painting to moisture to relax and flatten deformed or wrinkled paint and canvas without water damage.

A type of lining where only the edges of the canvas are reinforced, preserving more of the original material. Used for paintings with stable centers but fragile edges.

The gentle removal of surface dirt, grime, and non-original varnish from a painting to reveal the true colors and details as the artist intended.

The process of repairing and restoring the frame of a painting, which could include structural repairs, surface cleaning, and gilding.

A process where ozone gas is used to remove oxidants and odors from paintings, particularly those affected by smoke or fire damage.

Repairing punctures or tears by applying a small piece of canvas to the damaged area on the back, then in-filling and retouching on the front side.

The application of a neutralizing agent to a painting on canvas or paper to halt the acidic deterioration of the material.

The process of repairing tears in a canvas using methods like sewing or adhesives, which is then reinforced with patching or lining.

The process of stabilizing a deteriorated paint layer by applying a consolidant that penetrates and reinforces the paint.

The use of biological agents, such as enzymes, to safely remove protein-based contaminants like glue without damaging the artwork.

Gels infused with solvents used to clean sensitive paint surfaces with controlled and reduced risk of solvent penetration and paint damage.

Using ultraviolet light to cause materials in paintings to fluoresce, which can help in identifying past restorations and analyzing materials.

The scientific examination of the pigments used in a painting, often to ascertain the artwork's age, authenticity, or to inform restoration practices.

The use of digital technology to simulate restorative changes to a painting, allowing for visualization of potential results before physical work is carried out.

The art of replicating the texture of the original paint using various tools and techniques to make restorations blend seamlessly.

The application of a fresh varnish layer after a painting is cleaned, providing a protective coating with desired aesthetic qualities.

The use of methods like X-ray, UV light, and infrared reflectography to examine and analyze underlayers of paint without physical contact.

Maintaining optimal conditions of temperature and humidity for paintings to prevent environmental stress and degradation.

The temporary application of a protective layer to the front of a painting to safeguard the paint layer during treatment, such as relocation or lining.

The use of microscopes to examine and analyze paint layers, varnish, and restorations at a microscopic level for informed conservation decisions.

The practice of adjusting the tension of a canvas on its stretcher by manipulating the wooden keys in the corners of the stretcher frame.

The application of gold leaf with intentional color variation to frames or art objects, simulating the appearance of aged gold leaf.

A substance used to fill in areas of loss or damage in the support or ground layer before inpainting is applied.

The technique of adding a new support to a weakened or damaged canvas, reinforcing the structure of the painting and helping to prevent future deterioration.

The act of securing flaking or lifting paint to prevent further loss. It often involves consolidating the paint layer with adhesives.