The painting, frame or polychrome sculpture, while it is an artistic expression, is also a composition of different materials all interacting with each other, as well as the environment surrounding it. All works of art are affected by humidity, temperature, micro organisms and pollutants.

The processes of conservation and restoration requires a thorough understanding of the principles of material structure and surface chemistry, combined with the knowledge of artistic techniques and methods of construction, original materials and processes used by the artist. Before any treatment commences, the condition of a work of art has to be carefully documented. To find out more about the object the conservator can use many different tools to investigate its condition, composition and history. Analysis can help determine the materials used by an artist in order to study their painting technique. Furthermore, such knowledge helps the conservator to understand the ways objects deteriorate, making it crucial in determining best practice in conservation, preservation treatment and handling.