Conservation in the spot light: maintaining public access to the Staffordshire Hoard while delivering a conservation program Staffordshire. Ellen Promise installing object in display case. Graduate fellow, Ellen Promise Hoard Conservation Project Manager, Deborah Cane Context Conclusions In 2009, a cache of Anglo-Saxon artifacts, now known as the · Continually updating the public Staffordshire Hoard, was discovered by a metal detector has reinforced the idea that the enthusiast in a farmer's field. The Hoard comprises at least Hoard artifacts are shared cultural 1,700 fragments and objects of gold, silver and precious th th heritage. stones, estimated to date between the 6 and 8 centuries CE. The objects are mostly martial in nature, including sword · This has promoted a sense of pommels, hilt collars and possible helmet components. mutual responsibility for the preservation of the objects. · One benefit of heightened awareness is increased sponsorship and funding. · A further benefit is the fostering of a collaborative community, which includes interested members of the Outreach public and professionals. K843 lentoid on site. Discoverer of the Hoard, Terry Herbert, with his metal detector. In a deviation from the typical protocol, the objects were put on display at the Birmingham Museum and Art Galleries prior Conservation to their acquisition. Members of the public Public Response were allowed to see their cultural heritage A core team of three conservators, immediately. Since this time, continued Developing a symbiotic relationship Deborah Cane, Cymbeline Storey, and efforts have been made to keep the public with the public has yielded Deborah Magnoler, work to document updated on this project, with monthly tours, noticeable results for the Hoard and treat the artifacts, but collaboration filmed and written blogs, and ample news project. The public played a critical has been essential to the continued coverage. A key partnership was forged with role in raising the 3.3 million pounds success of the project. Conservation the National Geographic Society, and this necessary for the Birmingham scientists, researchers, jewelry makers Cleaning with natural thorn K843 245x. has resulted in filmed specials, Museum and the Stoke-on-Trent and other conservators have contributed magazine articles, Potteries Museum to jointly acquire their time and expertise. The project is and an exhibition at the artifacts. Promotion has helped also committed to education, taking on a the National to elevate the profile of the Hoard, number of student placements for Geographic and consequently, visitorship to durations from two weeks to two months. Museum in exhibitions has been outstanding. Washington, D.C. Individuals, trusts, businesses and Local exhibitions other sectors have been willing to Consolidation of garnet K843 25x. have also brought support the project financially. the hoard objects to Conservation work has been funded venues such as for a guaranteed two years, and Stafford Shire Hall, needed equipment, such as a suite Lichfield Cathedral, of microscopes, has been acquired. Working under microscope. and Tamworth Castle. Hoard objects displayed in Lichfield Cathedral. Acknowledgments Photos courtesy of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent Potteries Museum, and Portable Antiquities Scheme K843 lentoid before treatment. Hoard conservation team. K843 lentoid after treatment. .