What is conservation?

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Conservation is the preservation, protection and care of our cultural heritage (you can read more at http://icon.org.uk/what-is-conservation).  It enables enjoyment of our cultural heritage whilst it also keeps heritage objects safe for future generations.

Ethical rules govern conservation as practiced by accredited conservators.  We deal honestly and openly with you, give sound and fair advice, know the limitations of treatments we offer, carry out conservation work to the highest standards, maintain the utmost respect for objects regardless of their value, aim at minimal intervention and as far as possible keep our treatments reversible.  Prevention of damage and deterioration in the first place is of utmost importance.

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Conservation covers aspects such as investigation, documentation, preventive care, remedial treatment and, in some cases, restoration, packaging for access, storage and transport, and mounting for display.

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What is the difference between conservation and restoration?

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Conservation is the preservation, protection and care of our cultural heritage.  It aims at reducing causes of damage to objects and preserving them in their present form.

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Restoration returns objects to their previous form completely or, in some cases, it can involve reconstruction. 

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For objects that will still be actively used for their original purpose, restoration may be a better option than conservation.

 

Both conservation and restoration work can be undertaken at Archaic Treasures