The method of construction and painting of scrolls is described. Deterioration of the scrolls has been caused by exposure to smoke from lamps and incense burners in temples, insect and rodent attack, and the effects of rolling and unrolling. The Tibetans and Nepalese have traditionally dealt with the problems by overpainting. (Abstractor's note: The author presents a point of view which favors modern Western conservation methods over the more traditional techniques. This is an interesting and well-written article, but the procedures discussed may not be suitable for museum artifacts. The Japanese approach to conservation may offer some suitable alternatives.)