Conservation of murals in the 1st half of the 20th century and issues of authenticity

Ewa Święcka

doi:10.5277/arc150403

Abstract

The text presents mural paintings’ character and shows differences between wall paintings and other kind of paintings. Reviews of the methodology of research and techniques of conservation of mural paintings as well as the approach to the question of authenticity have been presented. The main topic is history of conservation in Poland in 1st half of 20th century, Polish restorers made many mistakes at that time. Mural paintings were restored mainly by their overpainting. Respect for the preserved matter and methods of conservation were gradually accepted. In the past only the aesthetic value of the work of art was protected and believed to be authentic. Modern conservation – supported by science – respects and protects traces of the original material treated as a historical document.

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