The article deals with problems of the modern sculpture restoration theory and practice. The author gives the definitions of such concepts as conservation , restoration and reconstruction and the way they are treated nowadays. The growing importance of the monument as a historical document is emphasized. It is underlined that works of art run the risk of being ruined if inadequate modern chemicals for conservation are used. The article stresses a necessity of a complex research approach as the most progressive and meeting the up-to-date requirements of a scientific restoration.