Philosophical, cultural and institutional framework for restoration in Italy

• Theory and philosophy of restoration

• Short history of restoration and conservation

• Institutional setting and support for restoration

Ceramic conservation

The methodological approach

Documentation of restoration work

• Photographic, textual and graphic methods

• Examples and lab practice

Cleaning techniques and materials

• Types of dirt and foreign materials

• Mechanical and chemical methodologies and instruments

• Safety measures

• Materials from previous restorations

Consolidation techniques and materials

• Advantages and limits of the procedure

• Consolidant requirements

• Different application methods

Fragments search methodology

Joining techniques and materials

• Adhesive general requirements

• Adhesive choice

• Thermosetting/thermoplastic resins: differences, application methods, safety measures

• Useful supplies for bonding

Gap filling, surface protection and supports

• Thoughts and issues around gap fillings

• Characteristics and requirements of the materials

• Most commonly used fillers in Italy

• Application techniques, refinishing, painting

Some case studies of interesting ceramic restorations

• Big vessels, statues, etc.

Conservation in the field

• Roles of conservator during excavation

• Field conservation lab

• Lifting techniques

• Micro-excavation

• Temporary protection materials

• Packing and storage (short/long time), materials and methods

Ceramic decay

• Decay processes and damages

• Different environments (before and after the abandonment)

• Agents of decay

• Physical damage

• Chemical factors and processes

Handling and moving objects of art

• Guidelines and techniques to handle and lift delicate objects

• Useful devices

Museum and storage environments

• Preventive conservation in museums

• Agents of deterioration in museums

• Object locations

Packing and display materials

• Rigid and semi-rigid materials (natural and synthetic)

• Flexible and elastic materials (natural and synthetic)

• Buffering, scavenger and monitoring devices

Site study visits

• Visit to local museums and restoration laboratory