Golden Rules in Heritage Conservation and Restoration techniques :
By entrusting your artworks to ARCOART, you are assured of expertise grounded in chemistry, art history, and material science. Our ethical framework is based on the following principles:
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Respect for the integrity of the artwork
Never alter the identity, history, or meaning of the work.
Preserve the original material whenever possible. -
Principle of reversibility
Use materials that can be removed without harming the original.
When full reversibility is not possible, ensure at least compatibility and long-term stability. -
Principle of legibility
Interventions should remain discreet to the naked eye, yet detectable under close examination (UV, microscope, etc.).
The goal is visual continuity, not concealment. -
Traceability and documentation
Every condition report, test, and intervention must be documented (texts, photographs, mapping).
Documentation must be archivable, shareable, and understandable to other professionals. -
Minimal intervention
Intervene only as much as necessary to stabilize or transmit the work.
Always favor preventive conservation over direct intervention.
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Compatibility and durability of materials
Use only stable materials, scientifically proven and physically-chemically compatible with the original layers.
Avoid untested or overly recent products without sufficient scientific feedback. -
Safety and environment
Ensure working conditions that protect the artwork, the conservator, and the environment (solvent management, protective equipment). -
Distinction between original and restoration
All additions must remain distinguishable through technical means (magnification, UV, etc.).
Never create a false or misleading appearance. -
Ongoing training and knowledge update
Conservators must continually update their skills (new methods, scientific research).
Engage in professional exchange and networks. -
Ethics and responsibility
Refuse any intervention that compromises integrity or professional ethics.
Communicate transparently with the client about limitations, risks, and costs.
