This course introduces students to the principles and practice of book and paper conservation and to the appropriate implementation of interventive techniques. It introduces the core techniques of conservation documentation and examination, mechanical cleaning, humidification, washing, paper enclosures and supports. In addition, it introduces the underlying principles of applied science.

Lecture: 1hr a week over 11 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

Supervised studio time: 14 hrs a week over 11 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus

External visit: 1 x 3 hours

Project Supervision: 3 x 1 hour

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Science Assessment (2000 words) - 45%

Assessment of Practical Work - 25%

Object Record (1500 words) - 30%

This course aims to:

■ Introduce the students to the principles and practice of the core conservation treatment approaches and techniques used to preserve historic and contemporary artefacts.

■ Enable the students to acquire knowledge of material properties and the causes and effects of degradation necessary to understand an object's characteristics and condition.

■ Foster the development of specialised observation skills to understand and document books and archival materials and paper-based works of art

■ Raise students' awareness of appropriate professional skills.

■ Support the students' development of a range of communication skills for professional practice.

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

■ Proficiently use a range of core conservation and laboratory techniques to develop practical and professional skills.

■ Analyse books and archival materials using observation and interpretation skills in order to record their technical information and condition.

■ Identify and characterise the scientific properties of different fibre, pigment and ink types and the scientific principles of paper and parchment ageing that inform conservation decisions.

■ Critically reflect on relevant theory and practice in order to justify choices of techniques and materials.

■ Employ professional language and appropriate terminology to communicate orally and in writing.

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