Now, restoration experts from East Asia, including Chinese restorer Qiu Jinxian, blend traditional Eastern preservation methods with modern preservation practices.

For instance, in scroll mounting, the studio uses the paper, silk and tools recommended by Chinese experts, but also uses gluten-free wheat starch.

The use of modern technology is exemplified by the work of the National Archives of Singapore, according to Lay Yoong-ell, a researcher at the Palace Museum at Taipei, who says NAS is constantly updating its methods of archive preservation, with an elaborate system of document filming, repair and oral history compilation.

The forum also featured an exhibition of select ancient Chinese paintings and calligraphy works by artists from the Ming and Qing dynasties and the modern era, including Qi Baishi, Xu Beihong and Zhang Daqian.

Contact the writer at chengyuezhu@chinadaily.com.cn