Born in Switzerland, R. Agass Baumgartner attended The Luzern Academy of Art and the École des Beaux-arts in Epinal, France, majoring in studio art and art history. Between 1971 and 1978 Baumgartner apprenticed and worked in the department of art conservation at the Museum of Art and History in Fribourg, Switzerland. From 1974 -1978 he freelanced in mural and 16th through 19th century easel painting restoration and conservation. By the end of 1978, he moved to Chicago where he opened the Baumgartner Fine Art Restoration studio. Baumgartner Restoration is a longtime member of AIC (American Institute of Conservation) and continues to provide outstanding service to all of its' clients.