An Experience at Conserving Archeological Artifacts: Field School at the Museo de Sitio de Alta Vista (Site Museum of Alta Vista), Zacatecas, November 2009

Abstract

The Archaeological Conservation Seminar encrym-inah held a field trip to the archaeological site of Altavista, Zacatecas during November 2009. Its objective was to conserve a collection of 91 archaeological artifacts made from shell, bone, turquoise and pyrite. The decisions on materials and methods of treatment as well as the achievements are discussed. The restoration procedures were carefully chosen after analyzing the objects and their state of material conservation. This practical experience in conservation reported not only satisfactory results but also useful data regarding the technology of the artifacts, the limitations of certain conservation procedures, and possibilities for museographic integration. This field trip is an example of interdisciplinary work in archaeological conservation and highlights the contributions to the professional area the conservators can generate.