Conservation at Manchester Met
How we care for our collections and archives
Overview
Conservation is the physical preservation of cultural heritage, enabling objects to be displayed, researched and used. It’s a cross-disciplinary practice that links the arts, science, humanities, social science and technology.
Our conservators combine knowledge of materials and techniques with practical, hands-on skills, underpinned by scientific analysis and research, to safeguard continued access to our collections now and in the future.
How we conserve our collections
Our collections contain almost every material you can think of, from seaweed to concrete and everything in between. Many are very fragile but, whatever the object, we take a consistent approach:
- investigate the materials and techniques used to create the object
- identify what may cause damage to it
- establish what problems the object may already have
- identify the best treatment for its long-term survival
We also advise on safe handling, exhibition, loans, storage, and transport.
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Our aim is to use and enjoy our collections with minimal risk of damage.
We follow internationally established standards to maintain their aesthetic and physical integrity.
Our qualified conservators and modern conservation facilities ensure museum standard care, as befits our Accredited Museum status.
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The purpose of all conservation is to facilitate access to and enjoyment of our cultural heritage. It helps us understand ourselves and our future by preserving our past.
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