Currently the oldest conservation studio in Chicago, Baumgartner Fine Art Restoration was founded in late 1978 on the North side of Chicago by R. Agass Baumgartner. Born in Switzerland, Agass 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.

In 2000 while studying painting and printmaking at Purchase College, SUNY Agass' son, Julian began an apprenticeship to learn the art of conservation. Up until Agass' passing in 2012 Julian worked by his father's side mastering the procedures and processes of fine art conservation and restoration. Julian felt strongly about keeping the business open and 2012 took full ownership and oversight of BFAR.

Clients can be sure that their artworks will only ever be touched by one set of hands. In keeping with his father's example Julian feels that by fostering a personal relationship with every client and artwork the best results can be achieved. By remaining small and limiting his focus to paintigns and other works on canvas Julian believes he is able to be more focused on each piece of artwork and as such eliminate other distractions.

Baumgartner Restoration is a longtime member of AIC (American Institute of Conservation) and continues to provide outstanding service to all of its' clients.