RT Journal Article
T1 Challenges of conservation: working objects
A1 Elizabeth Pye
YR 2016
VO 
IS Autumn 2016
K1 Conservation concepts and practice
K1 conserving science and industry collections
K1 operating objects
K1 physical access
K1 research
AB This paper discusses the concepts and practice of museum conservation, and the role of conservation in preserving both material and significance of objects. It explores the conservation of science and industry collections and the fact that the significance of many of these objects lies in their operation. It considers alternatives to operating original objects but emphasises the value of experiencing the real thing, and argues that visitors should be given greater physical access to museum objects, including being enabled to handle and work functioning objects. It finishes by calling for research into the effects of operation on the objects themselves, and into what constitutes a satisfying experience of working objects. 
PB The Science Museum Group
SN 2054-5770
LA eng
DO 10.15180/160608
UL https://journal.sciencemuseum.ac.uk/article/challenges-of-conservation/
WT Science Museum Group Journal
OL 30