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PhrasesAt the MuseumQuest'opera è in restauro?
B1

Quest'opera è in restauro?

Is this work under restoration?

Pronunciation

KWES-toh-peh-rah eh een reh-STOW-roh. 'Restauro' — stress on the first syllable.

When to use it

When you notice scaffolding around an artwork or find a room unexpectedly closed. Restoration is common in Italian museums due to the age of the collections.

What it means

In restauro means under restoration or being restored. It is a common sign in Italian museums and churches. The verb restaurare means to restore. Italy has thousands of art restorers working continuously on its vast cultural heritage.

Variations

Quando sarà di nuovo visibile?

When will it be visible again?

Ask about the expected completion date.

Posso vedere il restauro in corso?

Can I see the restoration in progress?

Some museums offer windows into active restoration labs.

C'è una riproduzione da vedere nel frattempo?

Is there a reproduction to see in the meantime?

Museums sometimes display high-quality reproductions.

Mini Dialogue

— Scusi, quest'opera è in restauro? — Sì, stanno lavorando sul retro per consolidare la tavola. — Quando sarà di nuovo visibile? — Dovrebbe essere terminato entro sei mesi. — Peccato. C'è una riproduzione? — Sì, nel corridoio qui accanto.

— Excuse me, is this work under restoration? — Yes, they are working on the back to consolidate the panel. — When will it be visible again? — It should be finished within six months. — What a pity. Is there a reproduction? — Yes, in the corridor just here.

Cultural Note

The Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence is one of the world's most prestigious art restoration institutes. It restored Cimabue's Crucifixion after the 1966 Florence flood and trains restorers from around the world.