We have chosen to inpaint several
figurative parts that contain structure and texture. The results
show how challenging this problem is even for state-of-the-art
inpainting methods. None of the methods tested so far produced a
satisfying result that fully (albeit virtually) restored the painted form.
Experienced conservators master a knowledge of the physical characteristics
of the paint layers and of the painted forms that call upon
complex visual perception and interpretation skills. Virtual inpaintings
do not provide alternatives to their work on the original but test
the potential of the methods that need to be further developed.