This often revised version of a working paper first presented at the 1978 ICOM Committee on Conservation meeting sets forth basic purposes, principles, and requirements of the conservation/restoration profession. It details the activities of a conservator/restorer and discusses the impact of his/her activities. Points raised include the necessity of teamwork and the distinct differences between conservation/restoration activities and those of artistic and craft professions. See also AATA 16-1105, 19-947, and 21-93.