Archaeological Conservation Field Techniques
Module Synopsis
This module describes the steps in setting up a field lab, from pre-season
planning to the practical aspects of carrying out basic conservation
procedures in the field. It provides information about the effect
of burial on objects, methods to remove fragile objects from various
burial environments, and the examination and identification of material.
Basic conservation processes that can be carried out in a field lab
are discussed, including packing and protection of artifacts.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- plan and equip a field lab
- understand the effect of burial environments on various materials
- decide how best to remove fragile artifacts from various burial environments
- implement simple examination, identification, and recording procedures
- conduct basic conservation processes in a field lab, including packing and protection of artifacts
Units
Pre-season Planning
Factors that influence the preservation of archaeological materials.
Developing a conservation strategy that fits in with the research
goals of an excavation. Planning and equipping a field lab. Budgeting
for supplies.
Health Hazards
Health hazards associated with archaeological excavation, and mitigation
of these risks. Health and safety issues that must be addressed in
a field lab.
Examination and Identification
Terminology to describe the condition of artifacts. Simple tests to
identify materials and artifacts. Damage due to use versus damage
due to burial, and how to differentiate the two.
Simple Treatments
Tools and techniques for cleaning artifacts. Determining the degree
of cleaning that is appropriate. Drying wet material in the field.
Methods and materials for consolidating friable artifacts. Removal
of soluble salts: when this needs to be done, and what is possible
in the field.
Lifting Fragile Artifacts
Principles and techniques for block lifts. Support materials for various
types of artifacts under different excavation conditions. Improvising
to solve excavation problems.
Storage and Packing
Materials that require special storage conditions after excavation.
Custom-made storage containers. Commercial containers. Materials for
labelling artifacts. Designing supports to protect artifacts during
shipping from the site.
Target Audience
Archaeologists, archaeology students, curators, and conservators who may have to deal with freshly excavated objects.
Facilitator(s)
Any of the following, depending on availability: Cliff Cook, Tara Grant,
Language
English
Special Requirements
Access to sinks, running water, electricity. Slide projector and a blackboard or flipcharts. Fume extraction is desirable but not essential.
Customization Options
The workshop organizer is encouraged to contact the instructors directly to discuss details about the workshop content.
Enrollment Limits
Minimum 10; maximum 20
Duration
2 days
