Conservation Resources

Explore our list of conservation resources designed to support the preservation and care of artworks.

AIC: The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works 

The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC) is the national membership organization of conservation professionals. Among its many resources, you can explore what conservators do and how you can become a conservator, as well as locate a conservator near you. 

IIC: International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works 

IIC is an independent international organization supported by individual and institutional members from more than 70 countries. It brings together conservation professionals, advancing knowledge, practice, and standards for the conservation of historic and artistic works. Through its publications, conferences, and awards and scholarships it promotes professional excellence and increases public outreach for the conservation field. 

ICOM-CC: International Committee for Conservation 

ICOM-CC is the largest worldwide network of conservation professionals, which aims to promote the investigation, analysis, and conservation of culturally and historically significant works, and to further the goals of the conservation profession. 

CAMEO: Conservation & Art Materials Encyclopedia Online 

CAMEO is an electronic database that compiles, defines, and disseminates technical information on the distinct collection of terms, materials, and techniques used in the fields of art conservation and historical preservation. Its MATERIALS database contains chemical, physical, visual, and analytical information on more than 10,000 historical and contemporary materials used in the production and conservation of artistic, architectural, archaeological, and anthropological materials. 

Closer to Van Eyck 

This site provides an in-depth look at the conservation work done on one of Jan van Eyck’s most famous works, The Ghent Altarpiece. All steps of the conservation process are clearly explained and, in some cases, illustrated with videos.  

Additionally, the website allows you to compare works by Jan van Eyck, which were examined with different modalities such as X-radiography, infrared photography and reflectography, and ultraviolet-induced visible fluorescence.  

Bart Devolder, the Museum’s chief conservator, was a member of the conservation team (2012–18) and is currently a member of the International Advisory Committee. 

Operation Night Watch 

Operation Night Watch is the biggest and most wide-ranging study of Rembrandt’s most famous painting. The project started in the summer of 2019 and is being carried out in full view of the visiting public in a specially designed glass chamber. The Museum’s chief conservator, Bart Devolder, is currently a member of the Advisory Committee.