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Surprisingly, while most of the A.I.C.’s 3,242 members work at institutions, about one-third are in private practice, advising art buyers and sellers, as well as galleries and auction houses.

In a phone interview, Suzanne Davis, president of A.I.C., said that conservators could help collectors judge whether a piece of art they were considering purchasing was authentic, and also help them take care of their art over the years.

Nunan, an A.I.C. member, noted that members of the organization must meet criteria yearly to be listed, and must keep up-to-date with changes to the professional code of ethics and guidelines for behavior.

Samantha Springer, owner of Art Solutions Lab in Portland, Ore., and a professional member and fellow of A.I.C., an honorary title conveying experience and service, said in a phone interview that collectors should have the “same goals for the outcome of the conservator’s work as the conservator.”

“Over 74 percent of private equity investment went to small businesses last year,” said Drew Maloney, chief executive of the A.I.C.