Conservation
At the Princeton University Art Museum, the physical care and treatment of the collections is a top priority. The conservation team works behind the scenes to protect works of art for future generations of scholars, students, and Museum visitors. The team’s work includes treating objects, researching artists’ materials and techniques, and determining storage and display guidelines for long-term preservation. By combining advanced scientific techniques with an understanding of the historical and cultural significance of each artwork, the team collaborates with staff across the Museum and the University to ensure that these works continue to support the Museum’s core mission of object-based teaching. Conservation work is always guided by the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice set by the American Institute for Conservation (AIC).
Art conservation is a delicate and meticulous process that involves the examination, analysis, and treatment of artworks to prevent deterioration. The Museum boasts three specialized conservation studios—dedicated to paintings, three-dimensional objects, and works on paper—equipped with cutting-edge technology. The conservation studios also feature a designated classroom, a room specifically equipped for laser cleaning and sample preparation, and a multipurpose space outfitted for several different imaging techniques, including X-radiography, ultraviolet-induced visual fluorescence (UV), visible-induced infrared luminescence (VIL), and infrared reflectography (IRR). Integrating these imaging techniques with archival research and expert observation, conservators select the most appropriate treatment approaches to ensure that the original integrity of each artwork is preserved. Alongside collaborative research with curators, scientists, and other specialists, these technical studies also reveal crucial new insights into dating, iconography, and authenticity, and offer a deeper understanding of artists’ techniques.
The conservation process is not merely about preservation—it’s about discovery and learning. At the Museum, a collaborative environment fosters partnerships among students, faculty, and conservation experts. Through public lectures, studio visits, and events, the Museum raises awareness of art conservation’s critical role in preserving cultural heritage.
