Conservation of Paintings

Research and Innovations

By (author) Gustav A. Berger By (author) William H. Russell

Book cover: Conservation of Paintings

Extent: 376 pages

Publisher: Archetype Publications Ltd 

Subjects: Art & Art History, Book History, Conservation, & Museum Studies

Language: English

Hardback (Published)

(July 2000)

ISBN: 9781873132371

7.09 x 9.92 inches

Price: $110.00

In stock

This volume presents Gustav Berger’s pioneering contributions to paintings conservation, including the development of BEVA and his research into paint cracking. Featuring revised studies, reflections on past treatments, and diverse case studies, it offers valuable insight into the evolution of modern conservation practice.


Gustav Berger is internationally recognized as one of the most innovative thinkers in the field of paintings conservation. As an active contributor to professional conferences and publications over the past forty years, he is best known for the development of BEVA, the widely acclaimed adhesive specifically formulated for use in the conservation field, and for his groundbreaking research in the cracking of paint. With this long-awaited book, Berger offers the reader fresh insights into his deliberations over conservation problems and treatments. Included are updated and revised descriptions of landmark investigations and approaches, as well as observations on how the results have fared. Case studies in the conservation of paintings of various media are also presented, including Old Masters, contemporary works and the gigantic Atlanta Cyclorama. Anyone interested in the development of modern conservation practice will find this volume an invaluable resource and a fascinating read.

  • By (author) Gustav A. Berger
  • By (author) William H. Russell

"...this book should take its place alongside the great reference works of the 20th century." Journal of the Canadian Association for Conservation 27 (2002) "Berger's research has not only given our field an invaluable new adhesive specifically designed for our purposes but it also has brought answers to the universal question of why paintings crack. This book...significantly adds to the profession's body of conservation knowledge and paves the way for future research. Intellectually generous and stimulating, this volume comes as a very welcome addition to conservation literature." Journal of the American Institute for Conservation 40(1) (Spring 2001) 70-73 "The wealth of experience brought together in one volume and the striking contribution that Berger has made as an independent conservator make this book worth reading." Studies in Conservation 46 (2001) 223-224

The wealth of experience brought together in one volume and the striking contribution that Berger has made as an independent conservator make this book worth reading.

...this book should take its place alongside the great reference works of the 20th century.

Berger’s research has not only given our field an invaluable new adhesive specifically designed for our purposes but it also has brought answers to the universal question of why paintings crack. This book…significantly adds to the profession’s body of conservation knowledge and paves the way for future research. Intellectually generous and stimulating, this volume comes as a very welcome addition to conservation literature.