The Care and Handling of Art Objects

More about the book

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of antiquities and artworks, and their preservation is a collective responsibility. This handbook serves as a practical guide for handling and caring for various art objects, whether they are on display, in transit, or stored. It outlines fundamental conservation principles that inform Museum practices. The first section provides guidelines for a wide range of works, including paintings, drawings, prints, textiles, costumes, musical instruments, and three-dimensional items, from monumental sculptures to delicate jewelry. The second section focuses on general procedures affecting the collection, such as climate control, light levels, and photography. Additionally, the book includes a glossary of conservation terms, a short reading list, and space for personal notes. Compiled from the expertise of curators and conservators across various departments, this handbook is primarily intended for those working at the Museum, but it will also engage private collectors, museum visitors, and the general public interested in art preservation.