Conservation
A Well-Traveled Pavement
An ancient Roman floor mosaic of the sea goddess Tethys has recently been the focus of an international study, including by researchers at the Harvard Art Museums.
It’s a Wash
As odd as it sounds, some works on paper get a water bath—and it’s completely safe.
A Colorful Tradition
Natural dyes created by Mexico’s indigenous Zapotec community were recently added to the Forbes Pigment Collection. A December workshop showcased how to make dyes used in the Zapotec weaving tradition.
Reigning over a Hellish Bureaucracy
Monumental Chinese paintings illustrating mythological scenes of the Ten Kings of Hell recently underwent significant conservation abroad.
Back on the Wall
A recently installed wall painting fragment offers a glimpse into life at an ancient Roman villa.
Here for the Long Haul
Plastic degrades more quickly than many other materials. So how can we ensure that works made from plastic remain in prime condition?
Preserving the Passage of Time
Extensive study and a thoughtful conservation approach have enriched the story of a 15th-century panel painting by Lluís Borrassà.
A Layered History
Recent analysis and conservation of an 18th-century bust of William Pitt, by Joseph Wilton, led to some important discoveries. The work is featured in our Philosophy Chamber exhibition.
The Gettens Cabinet
While it may look outdated, this Straus Center object is an important modern-day resource.
The Science of Ceramics
A multidisciplinary team is conducting groundbreaking research on numbered Jun ware.