A new branch of Art History

Technical art history focuses on an artwork as a physical object:  we study the materials, techniques and production methods that went into its making, and the context in which it was made.

In a small group, students work hands-on with a wide variety of art objects, using state-of-the-art analytical equipment to examine their construction and material composition. In addition to academic courses on the history of art technology and applied science, the Master’s programme includes excursions, workshops, and making historical reconstructions.

A unique specialisation

The Conservation and Restoration department at the UvA is one of the few programmes in the world to offer this specialisation, which sits at the crossroads between conservation, art history and science. It is ideally situated to facilitate connections and internships with the museums and institutions in Amsterdam, and participate in relevant research projects.