Art Conservation

This book belongs on the reference shelf of every conservator! Dr. Wei has provided a long-needed introduction to the mechanical properties of materials and the testing methodology for identifying those properties. Writing with clarity, he translates often-confusing terminology, allowing the conservator or the interested professional to more effectively understand, conserve, and use the complex materials that challenge their daily practice. Mechanical properties and behavior are as important as chemical makeup and interaction. This book provides a highly accessible guide to those critical properties.

~Dr. Jerry Podany, Retired Senior Conservator, J. Paul Getty Museum, USA

In the past, conservation studies have concentrated on a chemical approach to define the basic underlying factors for understanding the care and treatment of art and cultural objects. However, the chemical point of view is limiting. Since the 1990s, conservation studies have encompassed more than just the singular treatment of objects and have begun embracing the more global problem of preventive care. This broadening of the field has highlighted the lack of a basic resource covering the mechanical properties of art materials. Until now, this was not available in one place. Dr. Wei has produced such a resource for conservators and conservation students that covers the basic concepts of mechanical properties of materials, providing examples of testing methodologies using art materials.

~Dr. M. Susan Barger, Independent Museum Consultant