Retrospective Restoration
A method of restoring works of art with consideration of historical context
Retrospective restoration is a direction in restoration in which an object is restored to preserve its authentic appearance as much as possible, while taking into account the time in which it was created. The restorer carefully analyzes materials, technique, even traces of time, and returns the work to a look close to its historical state, avoiding excessive "modernization" or adding new details.
This approach is found both in painting and in work with porcelain or silver. Sometimes restoration becomes the occasion for funny stories, for example, the notorious attempt to update an ancient fresco led to the creation of a real internet meme. Retrospective restoration requires great professionalism: it is not just repair, here delicacy and respect for the artistic intent of the era are important.