A professional who restores damaged and faded paintings and preserves paintings, using techniques based on knowledge of art and art materials. Responsibilities include:

• Examines surfaces of painting, using magnifying device, and performs tests to determine factors, such as age, structure, pigment stability, and probable reaction to various cleaning agents and solvents.
• Removes painting from frame.
• Applies select solvents and cleaning agents and uses predetermined method to clean surface of painting and remove accretions, discolorations, and deteriorated varnish.
• Stretches new linen backing, applies paste material to back of painting, and laminates parts together, using laminating press.
• Dries laminated painting under controlled conditions to prevent shrinkage.
• Applies beeswax or other substance to damaged or faded areas where restoration is needed.
• Studies style, techniques, colors, textures, and materials used by artist to maintain consistency in reconstruction or retouching procedures.
• Reconstructs or retouches damaged areas and blends area into adjacent areas to restore painting to original condition.
• Applies varnish or other preservative to surface of painting and dries under controlled conditions.
• May remove paint layer from backing and remount on canvas, wood, or metal support using pressure and special adhesives.
• May apply neutral color powder to damaged areas to restore areas.