Art owners can protect their acquisitions from the progressive effect of everything from humidity to ultraviolet light. Collectors need to maintain a preventative care program to avoid needing the services of a art restorer. A visit to any museum will reveal fabulous collections of mankind's creativity dating from the beginning of recorded history. For the most part, the pieces came from private individuals who obtained them for their own enjoyment. The art may have remained in private hands for several generations before becoming part of a museum collection.
Fine art can be timeless.
However, if it is to endure the ravages of time, it must receive proper care. Museum curators spend a lot of time and effort providing a safe environment to house their collections. Private art collections deserve the same attention. Those who own fine art must realize they may be only temporary custodians and therefore have an obligation to care for and preserve it. The loss of a piece of art impoverishes both our society and us as collectors and caretakers of our artist heritage.