Cesare Brandi

Theory of Restoration

Cesare Brandi
(Siena 1906 – Vignano 1988)

- Art objects have historical and aesthetic value.

- Functional value of objects diminishes over time.
- Aesthetic theory of pragmatism suggests that art is recreated within the observer.
- Restoration is the recognition and preservation of art for future generations.
- Restoration aims to protect historical and aesthetic values.
- Matter serves as the manifestation of the image in art.
- Structure and appearance are two functions of material.
- Restoration can intervene in the structure but should avoid intervention in the
appearance.
- Restoration aims to re-establish the potential oneness of the artwork.
- Oneness refers to an ordered relationship between parts.
- Reconstruction is possible by identifying the law governing the composition.
- Fragments should be integrated while preserving their authenticity.
- Distinction between original and integrated parts should not be too strong.
- Gaps in paintings can be filled using reversible materials.
- Neutral tint used in the past can create more noticeable stains.
- Gestalt psychology influenced restoration techniques.
- Raising or excavating the level of gaps can create continuity in the artwork.

- Brandi's theory allows for modern interventions to interpret and present the original
fragment.
- Restoration is an interpretation rather than an absolute truth.
- It focuses on presenting the artwork in the best possible way.

Time
- Viollet-le-Duc and Boito were restoration theorists in the 19th century.
- Brandi criticizes them for not considering the timing of artwork creation.
- Artwork reaches a state of completeness after the initial project is abandoned.
- Artwork enters history and goes through a period of use.
- The value of the artwork is recognized in the present.
- Restoration should not interfere with the creative process.
- Restoration should be placed during the time of recognition.
- Modern techniques can be used in restoration.
- The patina of time and man should be respected.
- Restoration should balance aesthetic and historical instances.
- Additions should be preserved in architecture.
- The space of the artwork should be preserved for recognition.

According to Brandi
- The façade of Sant’Andrea della Valle has been figuratively damaged.
- The widening of the road changed the observer's viewpoint and affected the visual
effect of the facade.