The subject of conservation and restoration of works of art has long been the subject of debate in the art world. Experts and historians have never agreed that all art must be saved at all costs. This article will examine what art conservation and restoration is, what these efforts entail, and what has been done over the centuries to many of history's cherished works of art. To begin this discussion, it is crucial to understand what exactly art conservation and restoration is. is and what it implies. Art conservation/restoration can be defined as a set of professions dedicated to "a conservative approach to each painting (or work of art) to the extent that only what requires special attention is addressed and nothing excessive is never made, all the materials used are modern…”. It is the process of carefully examining, documenting, caring for and treating an art object that has been impaired due to age, neglect and use. These objects can range from paintings to architecture to 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 rotten works of art and a effort to restore each piece to its original shape and condition. In reality, conservation and restoration go hand in hand in terms of preservation and are both essential to the study and appreciation of art for future generations, despite all the problems and criticisms. Given these ideas, it is a conservator's responsibility to consider "ethical stewardship" regarding each piece. In other words, minimal intervention should be used with appropriate materials and methods to retain as much originality as possible. In fact, specific standards... middle of paper ... have caused additional damage. By the late 1970s, the painting was in poor condition, having suffered repeated damage and numerous repairs. From 1978 to 1999, a major restoration project was carried out and the painting was finally, after twenty-one years, put back on display. However, major changes in "colors, tones, and some facial shapes" were noted by critics. Dr. James Beck, professor of art history at Columbia University and founder of Art Watch, claimed that "only 18 to 20 percent of the painting was done by Leonardo's hand." The rest is the product of the restaurateurs.” Obviously the piece is not in its original form, and it was not even twenty years after its completion. However, thanks to the concern, care, diligence and expertise of many art lovers, there remains at least one remnant of Leonardo's masterpiece that can be studied and appreciated by future scholars and visitors..