Condition & Care

Terms for condition reports, damage, restoration, conservation, and long-term care.

Artwork condition matters. Whether you are preparing for an art fair, shipping work to a collector, framing works on paper, or documenting inventory, it helps to understand the basic language of condition and care. These terms are not meant to make artists sound overly technical. They are meant to help you describe your work clearly, protect it properly, and build collector confidence.

Condition
The physical state of an artwork, including any wear, damage, fading, repairs, or surface issues.

Condition Report
A written record describing the artwork’s current condition, often used before shipping, exhibitions, sales, or consignment.

Surface Wear
Visible marks, scratches, scuffs, abrasions, or changes to the artwork’s surface.

Fading
Loss or change of color caused by light exposure, age, or materials.

Craquelure
Fine cracking in the paint surface, often seen in older paintings.

Foxing
Small brown or reddish spots that can appear on paper due to age, moisture, or oxidation.

Mat Burn
Discoloration caused by acidic mat board touching or surrounding artwork on paper.

Acid-Free
Materials made to reduce acid damage, often used in mats, backing boards, storage, and framing.

UV Protection
Glass, acrylic, or coatings designed to help reduce damage from ultraviolet light.

Conservation
Professional care or treatment intended to stabilize, preserve, or protect artwork.

Restoration
Work done to repair or visually improve damaged artwork.

Archival Storage
Storage methods and materials designed to protect artwork over time.