The topic of art conservation and restoration has long been debated in the art world. Experts and historians have never agreed that all art should be saved at any cost. This article will examine what art conservation and restoration is, what is involved in these efforts, and what has been done over the centuries to many of history's most cherished works of art. To begin this discussion, it is critical to understand what exactly art conservation and restoration is and what it entails. Art restoration/conservation can be defined as a series of professions dedicated to a "conservative approach to each painting (or work of art) in that only what needs attention is addressed and nothing excessive is ever performed, all the materials used are modern...". This is the process of careful examination, documentation, attention and treatment of an art object weakened due to age, neglect and use. These objects can range from paintings to architecture and any number of things. Typically, conservation involves the maintenance and care of an object to prevent future damage, while restoration on the other hand normally involves the repair of damaged and/or decayed works of art and an effort to restore each piece to its original form and original condition. In reality, conservation and restoration go hand in hand through preservation and are both fundamental in the study and appreciation of art for future generations, despite all the problems and criticisms. Considering these ideas, it is the conservator's responsibility to consider “ethical stewardship” of each piece. In other words, minimal intervention with appropriate materials and methods should be used to maintain as much originality as possible. In fact, specific standards......half of the document......caused further harm. By the late 1970s, the painting was in poor condition, having suffered repeated damage and numerous repairs. An important restoration project was carried out from 1978 to 1999 and the painting was finally, after twenty-one years, put back on display. However, critics noted major changes in "colors, tones and some facial shapes". Dr. James Beck, professor of art history at Columbia University and founder of Art Watch, said that only “18 to 20 percent of the painting was actually done by Leonardo's hand. The rest is the work of the restorers." Clearly the work is not in its original form, nor was it completed even twenty years later. However, thanks to the concern, care, diligence and expertise of many art lovers, at least a remnant of Da Vinci's masterpiece remains that can be studied and appreciated by future scholars and visitors..