Conservation Department
Object conservation
Loans
An art handler moving an object onto a trolley
An object in the Collection being treated before it is ready to go out on loan
A lot of the work undertaken in Objects conservation is hidden from the public eye. An art work that is going on loan has to be taken from its storage area to the conservation lab for examination, condition checking and possible treatment. The movement of all objects is undertaken by skilled art handlers who use trolleys to safely transport all works of art. After the work has undergone conservation inspection and treatment in the lab it is taken to the packing area to be put in a crate for transportation.
It is important to ensure that an object has undergone a complete condition check before it travels on loan, as the act of transporting an object can cause damage. Objects conservators are often involved in the packing process and provide advice on how to support specific art works and on the materials to be used in the transport crates.
Some objects require an Objects conservator to travel with them because of their value or fragility. In these instances the conservator will be present when the art work is packed and unpacked, and provide instructions on its handling and display requirements.