Taught by Angela Middleton, Senior Archaeological Conservator, Historic England, and Rosie Bolton and Arianne Panton, Leather Conservation Centre.

This course combines presentations and handling sessions to introduce course participants to the lifespan of leather, from production to burial and subsequent conservation. Topics covered are listed below and will be illustrated throughout with case studies and practical examples. Participants are welcome to bring their own objects / image to discuss with the tutors towards the end of the course.

Topics include:

·       The making of leather – Transforming skins into a useable material

·       The preservation of leather – Conditions required, where to expect leather finds, first aid and recovery.

·       Analysis and identification – Introduction to analytical techniques used to extract information from leather, and a practical session on species identification using grain patterns.

·       Documentation and conservation options for archaeological leather and associated materials.

·       Packaging and recommended storage environments

·       Case studies and discussion

This course is suitable for conservators and conservation students who have not worked with archaeological leather or curators/ collections managers who want to learn more about archaeological leather, as well as experts in related fields.

A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please let us know in advance if you have any specific mobility requirements.

Enquiries and bookings should be made via the email link and please include a brief summary of your interest in this topic.