This beautifully illustrated book is an ode to art restoration. It takes the secrets of this special profession from the studio and sheds light on its art‐historical and scientific aspects. It zooms in on meticulous restorations of centuries‐old paintings, complex treatments of contemporary works, but also the use of innovative technology for the analysis, treatment and consolidation of works of art in the most diverse materials.


Based on 40 high‐profile restorations, this book takes a look behind the scenes of the art restoration profession. Restorers testify about the challenges of their profession, while collection managers and art professionals delve deeper into the importance and future of restoration. Handled with Care pays tribute to the profession and offers a glimpse into an often hidden world.


With text contributions by, among others, Philippe Van Cauteren, Robert Read, Claire Tillekaerts, Peter De Wilde and about works of art by none other than Peter Paul Rubens, Antoon Van Dyck, Jacob Jordaens, Henry van de Velde, Joseph Beuys, Andy Warhol, Sol LeWitt, Luc Tuymans etc.


This book is published on the occasion of 10 years of IPARC (International Platform for Art Research and Conservation Ltd).


Text in English and Dutch.