Is conservation and restoration just for very valuable paintings?
No. This question assumes that paintings have only one kind of value, when they have many. People love pictures for many reasons – aesthetic pleasure, family significance, personal associations, and so on. Of course paintings also have monetary value and this may play a part in deciding whether or not to have conservation or repair treatment carried out. Contrary to popular belief, however, the costs involved need not be prohibitive and the benefit in protecting one’s asset is significant. All paintings require the attention of a professional conservator from time to time, especially when dirt and discolouration accumulates or when accidents happen.