The course provides information on instrumental analysis to support conservation (including interpretation and contextualisation of data) and the properties of additional materials encountered in multi-media specialism-specific objects (such as leather, paint and metals). These aspects are explored through study and assessment of an individually assigned multi-media object from the Hunterian collection.

.

2 hours per week plus visits to conservation studios and scientific labs

None

None

Object record (3000 words) 65%

Presentation: Public engagement - pitch and supporting proposal document (5 minute presentation & 1000 words) 35%.

This course aims to:

■ Broaden knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of materials encountered in multi-media artefacts within a historical and cultural context.

■ Introduce analytical methods to inform collection care and interventive and preventive conservation decisions for multi-media collections.

■ Introduce a range of analytical instruments used to identify materials and an appreciation of their application and limitations.

■ Communicate information in styles appropriate to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically evaluate the material properties of mixed-media objects, considering their visual appearance, condition and context.

■ Formulate research questions relating to material aspects of historical objects.

■ Rationalise the choice of analytical techniques suitable for the investigation of mixed-media objects.

■ Articulate information effectively, adapting communication styles to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.