The historical background of the Fairmount Park Commission indicates that in its early years statuary was erected without considering future maintenance. The issues of care, maintenance, artistic intent, and environment are discussed as general principles. Specific policies regarding maintenance implemented by the author on behalf of the Fairmount Park Art Association are described; legal protections for the owner of the work and for the conservator are covered. See also reference to article by Steven Tatti for another discussion of Fairmount Park statuary; see also reference to entire proceedings in this number.