Facture ─ Conservation, Science, Art History: Renaissance Masterworks

The National Gallery of Art introduces a new journal presenting the latest conservation research on works in its collection. Named for ?the manner in which things are made,” Facture addresses aspects of conservation from treatment and technical art history to scientific research. The inaugural volume focuses on great works of the Renaissance, studying sculpture, painting, and drawing from various points of view. With the publication of this biennial journal, the National Gallery maintains a tradition of fostering dialogue among art historians, scientists, and conservators working in the international museum community.

Facture presents articles by highly respected authorities aimed at the specialist as well as the general reader with a passion for art. Future issues will concentrate on other themes in the materiality and history of art, addressing all aspects of the discipline from conservation treatment and history to technical art history and fundamental scientific research.

Daphne Barbour is senior object conservator and E. Melanie Gifford is research conservator for paintings technology at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.