What does "restorative art" refer to in mortuary science?

• A. The practice of making the body more aesthetically pleasing
• B. Restoring the deceased's appearance through cosmetic techniques
• C. A technique to speed up decomposition
• D. A method for preserving religious artifacts

Answer: (B)

Restorative art in mortuary science primarily refers to the practice of restoring the appearance of the deceased using various cosmetic techniques. This involves addressing any physical alterations due to trauma, disease, or post-mortem changes that could affect how a person looks after death. The goal is to create a more natural and peaceful appearance for viewing by the bereaved.

The techniques employed in restorative art can include applying cosmetics, reconstructing features, and addressing discolorations or deformities. This practice is essential for helping families achieve closure and making the process of mourning more bearable by providing a representation of their loved one that closely resembles their pre-death appearance.

Different options presented touch on various aspects but do not encompass the full definition of restorative art. For instance, while making the body more aesthetically pleasing is a part of restorative art, it is more accurately aligned with the broader scope of employing cosmetic techniques specifically aimed at restoring the deceased’s natural appearance. The other choices do not pertain to this practice, as speeding up decomposition or preserving religious artifacts falls outside the domain of restorative art.