This article offers a review of the different types of commercially available permanent magnets, as well as information concerning their physical properties. The handling of magnets is also taken into consideration. Two case studies, one concerning a work on black cotton and the other a work on paper, illustrate the use of permanent magnets for the mounting of works of art for exhibition and for storage purposes. Suggestions are made also as to other possible applications of magnets as conservation tools. -- SCMRE