|
|
 |
|
|
home > collections > conservation + collections management
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Conservation and Collections Management is an integral part of the Museum’s stated purpose to hold its collections in trust for future generations. Members of the department support the Museum’s goals through development of conservation treatments, study of materials and techniques, and scholarly research. These activities not only further scholarly understanding, but also contribute to public appreciation of the collections.
The department promotes the long-term preservation of the works of art in its care through six conservation disciplines, an analytical facility, and a collections management division responsible for safe exhibition, storage and transport. Following internationally established standards to maintain the aesthetic and physical integrity of works of art, staff members strive for the highest quality in their work and documentation.
Questions
Please direct inquiries about conservation and any questions relating to the care of privately owned artworks to conservation@mfa.org. |
|
|
|
Featured Conservation Projects
Greek Vases
Conservation treatment of Late Archaic and Early Classical ceramic vessels
Costume Accessories
Design and construction of custom storage mounts to protect fragile costume accessories
Upholstered Furniture
Treatment and re-upholstery of Rococo Revival parlor furniture |
|
|
|
Conservation Divisions
The department of Conservation and Collections Management was organized into its present configuration in July 2001. Before that time, many of the labs and studios had long and distinguished histories, often associated with specific curatorial departments. Conservation and Collections Management is now comprised of the following divisions:
Asian Conservation Studio
Furniture and Frame Conservation Laboratory
Objects Conservation Laboratory
Paintings Conservation Studio
Paper Conservation Laboratory
Textile Conservation Laboratory
Scientific Research Laboratory
Collections Management
Conservators, research scientists and collections care staff work closely to ensure the protection of works of art while on display, in storage and in transit. While preparation of objects for exhibition and loan make up a large portion of the department’s activities, the divisions are also responsible for examining the condition of all objects entering or re-entering the Museum and for providing an assessment, including a determination of authenticity, of all works being considered for acquisition through purchase or gift.
Using a wide range of analytical tools, the technical aspects of artworks are explored so that conservators can undertake appropriate treatments and staff may ensure environmental requirements for safe storage, handling and installation are met. Examinations and treatments are extensively recorded in the Museum’s collections database, and this documentation, rich in both written reports and photography, proves a crucial tool that allows the department to monitor the care and preservation of the collections over time.
Dissemination of research findings through publications and lectures is another priority of the department. In an effort to share and broaden the understanding of conservation issues, staff members frequently offer tours of the Museum’s conservation facilities, contribute to professional conferences, and give presentations at seminars and universities.
Teaching is also an important part of the department’s commitment to the development of the profession, and the conservation divisions host a number of volunteers, trainees and interns each year. Learn more about this program.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
