Care of Archaeological Collections

This in-person workshop is designed as an introduction to the care of archeological collections from recent excavations or long-term storage. It combines lectures, discussions and hands-on activities to prepare participants for the long-term stabilization and preservation of archeological finds. Topics include documentation, labelling, packaging, basic ceramic repairs, preventive conservation strategies, drying of wet-site materials, and health and safety measures. This workshop adheres to the Code of Ethics and Guidance for Practice of the Canadian Association for Conservation of Cultural Property and the Canadian Association of Professional Conservators.

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• use appropriate materials and techniques to perform basic ceramic repairs when appropriate
• use appropriate materials and techniques to create removable labels for objects
• safely package archaeological objects using appropriate materials
• recognize the effects of the agents of deterioration and apply strategies to mitigate their impact
• prepare condition reports and take effective photographs to document their archaeological collections
• recognize hazards, such as mould and pesticides, and protect themselves and others so they can work with collections

Target audience

This workshop is best suited for participants who:

• have had minimal training or have not yet had training in the care of archaeological collections
• work or volunteer in a heritage institution with an archeological collection from recent excavations or long-term storage
• work with or make decisions that affect archeological collections

Enrolment limits

Minimum 6, maximum 15

Special requirements

Facilities

• Lecture room: The lecture room should be large enough to accommodate 17 people and a variety of tools and supplies comfortably. It should be equipped with a projector, laptop computer, screen, flip chart or blackboard, and drapes or blinds on the windows.
• Work room: There should be a work room (adjacent to the lecture room) where it is safe to use hand tools and solvents. This room should be large enough for 15 workstations and at least 8 worktables that are approximately 1 m by 1.5 m. The work room should also be equipped with electrical outlets, ventilation (for example, fume hoods, extraction trunk, easily accessible outdoor space) and an ABC-type fire extinguisher. If necessary, the lecture room and work room can be combined into a single space.
• Storage area (optional): Access to a storage area containing archaeological collections (for a short tour and discussion) would be beneficial.

Equipment and materials supplied by the host institution

• 1L bottle of acetone
• 1L bottle of ethanol

Register

To apply, consult the Learning activities page.