Conservation of Transcultural Heritage: Cooperation Towards Correct Interpretation and Common Strategies – The Vice-Roys Portrait Gallery

Abstract

India and Portugal share custody of an important portrait collection to both countries and their common past. The paintings surface is currently much altered due to several layers of coarse repaints which damage original materials and prevent its correct interpretation and appreciation.Recent investigations and scientific studies concluded the need to conduct a proper analytical methodology before any kind of restoration procedure, due to the need of safeguarding the correct interpretation of this historical document. In that sense international cooperation and multidisciplinary teams are required to achieve common strategies towards best practice in conservation.