Preservation

Definition

Preservation refers to the methods and processes used to maintain and protect artifacts, structures, and sites from deterioration or destruction. It ensures that these historical and cultural remnants can be studied and appreciated by future generations. Various techniques, such as environmental control and chemical treatments, are employed to prevent decay, while excavation practices are designed to minimize damage during recovery.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the context of Howard Carter's excavation, the preservation of King Tutankhamun's tomb was vital to maintaining the integrity of the artifacts found within.
2. The careful excavation techniques used at Sutton Hoo aimed to preserve the burial goods in situ before their removal, preventing damage from exposure to air and moisture.
3. Preservation methods can include both physical techniques, such as climate control, and chemical methods like consolidants to stabilize fragile materials.
4. Artifacts recovered from excavations are often subjected to conservation treatments to repair damage sustained during burial or excavation.
5. Preservation efforts play a crucial role in public archaeology, as they ensure that significant findings can be displayed in museums for educational purposes.

Review Questions

• How did preservation techniques influence the excavation process employed by Howard Carter in the tomb of Tutankhamun?
  • Howard Carter utilized careful excavation techniques that prioritized preservation to ensure the integrity of the artifacts found within Tutankhamun's tomb. This involved documenting the location of each item meticulously before removal, which allowed for a deeper understanding of their context. Additionally, preservation practices helped mitigate potential damage from environmental factors or handling during the excavation process.
• What challenges did archaeologists face in preserving the artifacts found at Sutton Hoo, and how did these challenges impact the findings?
  • Archaeologists faced significant challenges in preserving the artifacts at Sutton Hoo due to their exposure to air and moisture after being buried for centuries. These conditions posed risks of deterioration for organic materials like wood and textiles. To combat this, experts implemented careful excavation techniques and immediate conservation measures that helped maintain the integrity of these unique finds, allowing for better analysis and appreciation of their historical significance.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of preservation practices on our understanding of ancient cultures as demonstrated by excavations like those conducted by Howard Carter and at Sutton Hoo.
  • Preservation practices have significant long-term implications on our understanding of ancient cultures by ensuring that artifacts remain intact for future study and public display. In the case of Howard Carter's work in Tutankhamun's tomb, effective preservation techniques allowed historians to analyze material culture from ancient Egypt comprehensively. Similarly, at Sutton Hoo, preserved artifacts provided insights into Anglo-Saxon society. The ability to study these well-preserved items enhances our knowledge of past civilizations, illustrating their social structures, religious beliefs, and everyday life while making a case for continued investment in preservation efforts.

Related terms

Conservation: The science of preserving artifacts and structures through preventive care, restoration, and repair to ensure their longevity.

Archaeological Context: The relationship between artifacts, features, and ecofacts in their original location, which provides essential information for understanding past human behavior.

Site Management: The planning and implementation of policies and practices for the protection and maintenance of archaeological sites.