Asian Art Museum Conservation Center
| Overview | Conservation Activities | Recent Projects | FAQs |
The Conservation Center serves to protect and preserve the art collection of the Asian Art Museum for future generations to enjoy. Work at the Center includes treatment and preventive care, scholarly research on materials and techniques, and development of new conservation methods to address the changing needs of a growing museum.
The Center also shares the mandate of the museum to create a deeper level of understanding of Asian cultures by our visitors. Through cooperative exchanges, joint projects, and public outreach, art conservation can provide a unique window into shared traditions of art preservation, restoration and fabrication.
Established in the 1960s, the conservation department at the Asian Art Museum has grown from a single restorer to include three full-time conservators and additional part-time conservators as well as support staff. The museum’s move to the Civic Center building in 2003 allowed the Center to expand into a new custom-built laboratory space, which includes a fumigation/isolation room and analytical capabilities such as x-radiography, x-ray fluorescence, and ultraviolet light microscopy. Within the department are a number of specialist conservation disciplines, including paper and paintings, textiles, and three-dimensional objects. Although each area requires detailed knowledge of materials and historic production methods of certain art media, conservators work together and in collaboration with curators, scientists, and registrars to care for the collection as a whole.
By combining historical and scientific research with the detailed examination of art works, conservators can often discover new information about the date, provenance, and the history of an art object. Projects may focus on an individual object, using instrumental analysis and advanced imaging techniques to assess condition, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Such examinations help formulate decisions on how and when an art object should be repaired or restored. Larger surveys and research projects are also undertaken, to determine art trends over time and geographic distribution of art techniques.
Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential in conservation research. Conservation staff at the Asian Art Museum work closely with curators, scientists, and outside experts to advance the understanding of artworks, and to learn more about the cultures that produced these unique treasures. Conservators often study archaeology, art history, archives, and traditional craftsmanship to better understand a work of art. The projects described below demonstrate the broad scope of subjects and methods that may be involved.
Recent Projects
| Howdah | Balinese Box | Japanese Armor | Magnet Mounts | Outreach in Bhutan | Lacquer Symposium |
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View the conservation treatment of an elephant howdah for the Maharaja exhibition. |
Explore a detailed analytical examination and treatment of a Royal Storage Box from Bali. | See the many steps to conserving a suit of Samurai armor for display in the Japan galleries. |
...and more
- Learn about modern display methods using magnets to display art.
- Travel with a conservator to carry out conservation outreach in Bhutan.
- Read the proceedings from an international symposium on Lacquer Conservation held at the museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for my art?
This question is often heard, but can be difficult to answer due to the wide range of materials and the unique nature of handmade artifcts. Many good publications and references are available on the general care and storage of art objects. One excellent series, offered by the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), is available on the AIC website here: Caring For Your Treasures.
How do I find a conservator for my art?
Because no two works of art are alike in age, condition, or meaning, a decision on how to repair or restore an artwork should only be made after careful evaluation by a trained professional. The American Institute for Conservation offers a referral system that can help you find a qualified conservator in your area here: How to Choose a Conservator.
How do I volunteer in the Conservation Center?
While the Conservation Center occasionally accepts volunteers, it is not common practice due to the extensive oversight and training required. Acceptance depends on the type of projects being undertaken and the suitability and skills of applicants. Interested parties should contact Volunteer Programs.
Where do I learn more about conservation training?
Conservation training in the United States typically combines graduate-level academic study and years of hands-on training in museum or private conservation laboratories. A few universities offer advanced degrees in Art Conservation, while smaller private programs are available in many specialized areas. You can learn more about the requirements and curricula here: Become a Conservator.
