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Not every sign of change on a painting calls for a restoration treatment. For example, some inevitable signs of aging, such as certain types of cracks or increased transparency of oil paint should be accepted. Still, an aged, darkened varnish with accumulated grime on its surface often hides the artist's intended color and light balance and can be completely or partially removed by the conservator. Other so called structural changes, such as flaking of paint and ground layers, cracks with lifting edges, tears in canvas or cleavage in panel supports indicate more serious damage of the artwork. They usually call for more urgent conservation and restoration for the painting since they can cause further damage.
For the paintings restorer in private practice, aside from using appropriate conservation materials with minimal intervention and maximum reversibility, good communication with the client is of great importance. Before any treatment, the painting is directly and thoroughly examined for an accurate evaluation of its condition as well as the estimated time and materials needed for the conservation and restoration of the painting. The client is generally provided with a written treatment proposal that describes an expected outcome and alternative treatment(s) if possible. A final report summarizes the painting restoration. Detailed photographs document the condition of the artwork before, during and after the treatment.
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