The term stucco is defined as having a much wider application in modern Italian than its German origin implies. Stucco materials thus vary throughout history. A geographical-historical survey analyzes the composition of the material known as stucco, as well as the working techniques employed. The procedures for underdrawing and execution are identified and compared. The techniques for coloring are described and said to be as numerous and individual as the stucco techniques themselves. A table shows a series of some 35 dated samples analyzed by scanning electron microscope as to lime content, hydraulic components, organic binder technique and coloring. The Austrian Bundesdenkmalamt has assembled a collection of historic samples to serve as a basis for identification and comparison of individual craftmanship, a necessary step toward results in restoration work. Examples of structural repairs where restoration is necessary and others where conservation only is the rule are given and illustrated. The removal of overpaint and retouching are described as procedures carried out with the utmost caution based on a sound knowledge of the appropriate techniques. Acknowledgements are appended as well as the provenance and description of the 35 samples presented in the table quoted.