A Review of Terminologies and Methodologies for Evaluating Conservation Interventions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The main purpose of the review is to analyze the terminology and methodologies for conservation treatment in cultural heritage conservation, in particular, to define key terminology (such as quality, compatibility, efficacy, and durability); to identify methodologies for assessing conservation interventions; to examine case studies where these assessment techniques have been applied. A summary of the various definitions of terms such as quality, compatibility, efficacy and durability found in the literature is provided. This is followed by a presentation of some theoretical approaches found in the literature on how to evaluate different aspects of conservation interventions. Some more practical examples are then considered, with a focus on mural paintings. Finally, the importance of monitoring interventions over time in the context of preventive conservation is highlighted. The present review emphasizes that key concepts such as compatibility, efficacy, and durability are inherently flexible and context-dependent, often overlapping and evolving according to cultural heritage typology, intervention methods, and environmental conditions.
Source: Heritage
Institutions: Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Sapienza University of Rome
Language: English
Subfield: Conservation
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W4408997045