Study and conservation of museum objects: Use of classical analytical techniques

Abstract

The study and conservation of museum collections calls for the application of scientific methodology in the examination, analysis and dating of objects. Because the nature of these objects makes sampling undesirable, and often even impossible, museum laboratories continuously look out for new nondestructive techniques, which can be adapted for their use. Chemical analysis of museum objects, including trace element analysis, can provide information regarding provenance as well as the technology employed in the preparation of the materials and the manufacture of the objects. A very sensitive and precise analysis may thus provide a chemical “fingerprint” of an object, a school or a cultural group. On the other hand, detailed and precise chemical analysis can also provide insight into the processes involved in the deterioration of the materials of museum objects. Analytical requirements for the various types of materials, of interest in museum research are reviewed along with the classical analytical techniques widely used in museum research.