Supported projects

The first non-invasive examinations of works of art were carried out by curators, art historians, conservator- restorers and scientists. This in-depth investigation of the materiality of a work for conservation purposes was first carried out as part of condition reports and surveys, for which photographic records gradually replaced freehand sketches. For several decades now, non-invasive diagnostic and analysis techniques have been making steady progress, making it possible to obtain as much information as possible about works of art while minimising the number of samples taken. In recent years, the development of 2D/3D scientific and documentary imaging techniques, in situ microscopy and non-destructive physico-chemical analysis has created a new scientific environment, contributing to a new paradigm that is tending to move the laboratory towards the workshops and the works themselves, as part of preliminary or ongoing restoration studies. The increased amount of data available is an enrichment in the interdisciplinary decision-making process for conservation-restoration work. However, this development raises a number of questions about these new tools and the data they produce: What are their advantages and limits ? To what extent can they replace or complement laboratory micro-destructive techniques ? How can professionals of conservation/restoration access and use the results ? How should we archive and reuse the data they produce ? The SFIIC 2026 international symposium is being organised at the initiative of all seven Working Groups of the SFIIC, the French Section of the IIC (International Institute for Conservation). Its aim is to address, in a broad and open manner, non-invasive approaches to study and research for the conservation-restoration of movable and immovable heritage, both ancient and modern, and made up of a wide range of materials.