Bringing innovative scientific techniques to an aesthetic endeavor, paintings conservators interact intimately with works of art. They face countless decisions as they implement a course of treatment for each picture in their care. In this volume of essays, responses, and panel discussions, six paintings conservators, three curators, and a conservation scientist candidly reflect on the challenges and sometimes controversial choices involved in treating works of art.

A thoughtful, provocative, and passionate analysis of the ever-evolving art and science of paintings conservation, Personal Viewpoints offers a rare opportunity to listen in as a diverse group of professionals articulate the practical and theoretical commitments that animate the best work in conservation today.

• Foreword
• Introduction
• Session 1
  • The Conservator as Narrator: Changed Perspectives in the Conservation of Paintings, David Bomford
  • Croce e Delizia, Andrea Rothe
  • Comments, John Walsh
  • Comments, Ashok Roy
  • Panel Discussion
• Session 2
  • The Artist’s Voice, Mark Leonard
  • Ravished Images Restored, Jørgen Wadum
  • Comments, Philip Conisbee
  • Panel Discussion
• Session 3
  • Embracing Humility in the Shadow of the Artist, Carol Mancusi-Ungaro
  • Episodes from a Pilgrimage, Zahira Véliz
  • Comments, Scott Schaefer
  • Panel Discussion
• Closing Remarks, John Walsh
• About the Authors
• Index
• Photograph Credits

Mark Leonard is a conservator of paintings formerly at the J. Paul Getty Museum.