What is objects conservation?

Objects conservation is a profession, a science, and a highly practical field of expertise. Along with the IT specialty and others professions of our time, conservation science had gained impetus in recent decades. In part, the science of heritage conservation deals with the restoration or preservation of man-made objects in order to safeguard or reclaim their historical or cultural value and significance, aesthetic worth or physical integrity. Objects that are common beneficiaries of conservation include heritage objects, collectible wares, archaeological artifacts, corporate or commercial art, public sculpture or installations - even articles of sentiment, to name a few…

With the aid of current techniques and modern restoration materials, the conservator can remedy or stabilize virtually any degree of damage or degradation suffered by an object - in extreme cases, even if only a single fragment should remain! If responsibly performed, the studio work of conservation or restoration also lends itself to private practice, which is often characterized by substantial waiting lists and keen demand.

Objects conservation encompasses a number of specialisms, which include ceramics conservation, metals conservation, textile conservation and paper conservation, amongst others. The S.A. Institute for Objects Conservation maintains departments and training programmes which service the first two specialisms.