Specific cases in which recent technological advances in conservation have made a significant impact on the work of the art historian are highlighted. Infrared reflectography, a technique which J. R. J. van Asperen de Boer adapted to the art conservation laboratory, is the most applicable and accessible method readily available to art studies. Art history must be brought up-to-date with the information now available after cleaning and analysis of the old masters. This new relationship between conservator and art historian opens up new avenues in art historical research and the teaching of art history. -- AATA