Conservation department is a very important unit under museums that specializes in techniques of
proper examination, documentation and treatment of museum objects. Their oversight functions
involves direct inspection of the museum facility, the analysis of observation made and/ or direct
physical and chemical interventions to address aesthetic problems of object which is at risk of further
damage if not attended to.
The museum collection is kept in trust for the public so that it will be exhibited, studied and enjoyed for
generations to come. In order to ensure this, the museum’s conservation staff undertakes preventive
conservation, research and treatment of the collection. The conservators set policies and procedures for
the maintenance and long term preservation of the collection, and they establish best practices for
storing, transporting and handling artworks. Conservators also oversee safe installation of exhibition in
gallery and stores.
In order to preserve both the physical and aesthetic integrity of the museum collection, conservators
conduct scientific research on the materials and techniques used to create artworks, revealing artist’s
working processes, studying deterioration mechanism and testing treatment methods. Conservators
work closely with curators, exhibition officers and often, artists themselves to thoroughly research the
historical context of museum objects.
Conservators must understand both the historical and chemical make up of an object in order to
maintain and preserve it as much as possible, in its current condition. This is why there is the need for a
workspace called the conservation laboratory that ensures objects under treatment are stabilized and
safe.
Depending upon the size of the museum, it will definitely determine the size of the museum
conservation laboratory which should be well situated and well ventilated. The requirements of a small
conservation laboratory can be outlined as follows. Trained conservation staff is very necessary for the
laboratory. The conservators are entrusted with the daily task of conservation work.
Facilities in the laboratory like furniture for staff, workbenches, cupboards, chairs, shelves, water tap,
sink , with necessary electrical installation are equally essential. Equipment like vacuum cleaner,
weighing scale, air drier, just to mention a few. Environmental monitoring equipment like thermometer
for the temperature, UV meter, hygrometer for measuring relative humidity etc.
Simple tools like chisel, scalpel, hammer, pen knives, nylon brushes, buckets, gas masks, burners,
beakers, test tubes, pliers, metal cutters just to mention a few are vital for conservation work. Chemicals
such as fumigants, insecticides, pesticides, desiccants, reversible adhesives. Solvents for cleaning work
and detergents, are very important, too. Ammonia, acids, alkalis, formaldehyde, sodium carbonates for
restoration treatment should be on the shelf. Though, nowadays, preventive conservation is given
prominence over chemical intervention due to environmental and aesthetic reasons. As such, use of
harsh chemicals should be discouraged. Desiccants like silica gels can be reconditioned, for it’s reuse,
making it a simple yet cost effective approach. The daily work of the laboratory include careful
examination, documentation and treatment to prepare works of art for exhibition or storage.
Conservators also carry out assessments of new acquisition, incoming loans, and rotation or installation of objects in the galleries. Technical studies of artworks are undertaken to answer questions of authenticity and add to the body of knowledge in general.
Conservation laboratory whether big or a small office space caters for the function of providing a
workspace for the conservation techniques, maintaining safety standards and provides for the storage
of conservation records. The laboratory will facilitate and monitor the storage and display of the objects
under optimum conditions. Recommendations for safe display methods are provided after evaluations
of the specific needs of the individual objects. Where some material types which are vulnerable to
condition changes are put under supervision and monitoring in the secured environment. In conclusion,
conservation laboratory is extremely vital in the museum environment and their impact on the long
term preservation of the museum collection.
