Thumbnail of Conservation department

Conservation department

The Conservation Department is responsible for the preservation, conservation, investigation and display of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collections. Combining an expert knowledge of material science, outstanding practical expertise and underpinned by scientific analysis and research, staff are able to interpret deteriorated surfaces, evaluate the provenance, authenticity and restoration history of an object.

Thumbnail of Conservation of objects for the 'Arts 
of Thailand' display

Conservation of objects for the 'Arts of Thailand' display

This article highlights a selection of the conservation treatments implemented and examples of the rich decorations and techniques that can be found on these fascinating artworks from Thailand.

Thumbnail of Mazarin Chest conservation: Reconstructing surround to metal corner plate

Mazarin Chest conservation: Reconstructing surround to metal corner plate

10 videos showing successive steps during the reconstruction of the surround of one of the four metal corner plates on the lid, from the application of fillers to colour testing of tin powder and final toning with diluted urushi.

Thumbnail of Assessment RCA/V&A conservation course: science for conservators

Assessment RCA/V&A conservation course: science for conservators

Assessment RCA/V&A Conservation Course: Science for Conservators by Alan Cummings

Thumbnail of The Conservation and Mounting of a Jinbaori

The Conservation and Mounting of a Jinbaori

This article discusses the conservation of a rare and unusual Japanese object. The Jinbaori evolved in the late 16th century as a surcoat worn over a full suit of Samurai armour.