The article gives an overview of the painting conservator's job. Most important is his or her responsibility to preserve the artist's original intent. Methods of determining that intent discussed include: the consideration of living or literary sources, scientific analysis, comparison with other works by the same artist and having an awareness of how certain materials age. Conservation techniques such as lining, varnishing, filling and inpainting are outlined. The three American graduate conservation training programs are listed. See also AATA 19-1661. -- AATA