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PRESERVATION LAB
WHAT WE ARE DOING
WHY WE ARE DOING IT
Analyzing an artifact, extracting senses and design principles for preservation purposes, then creating a replica
To deepen observation, link design to function, and practice creative problem-solving.
ACTIVITY MATERIALS
Foam core
1st
Review your artifact recording sheet (with your teammate), and extract which senses and design principles, and key properties your object holds.
Recreate a replica with the provided materials.
Research what are the best way to preserve your artifact
Create a slide with all the information, and document your prototype
2nd
3rd
4th
10min
10min
45min
15min
1st
Review your artifact recording sheet, and extract which senses and key properties your object holds.
Identify which sensory channels are important and why. Also preservation constraints.
10min
Old bronze incense burner from the UAE.
Sight: intricate geometric patterns, green patina
Smell: incense aroma when in use
Touch: cool, rough metal surface (but fragile, so touch replica)
Sound: slight ringing if tapped (indicates metal thickness)
No Sounds
Most prominent sense: Smell
SENSES
Properties
Bronze (metal)
Needs controlled humidity to prevent corrosion
Requires stable support; no direct handling
Low light, no harsh cleaning; highlight patina in display
Include interpretive label explaining its cultural meaning
Ritual significance
Green patina
Implication for Preservation/Display
Example:
Properties
Research what are the best way to preserve your artifact
2nd
10min
Properties
Bronze (metal)
Needs controlled humidity to prevent corrosion
Implication for Preservation/Display
Properties
Solution
Requires stable support; no direct handling
Padded/inert supports.
Low light, no harsh cleaning; highlight patina in display
Green patina
Recreate a replica with the provided materials.
3rd
Using cardboard, clay, foil, wire, string, fabric mesh, make a small-scale model.
Focus on the shape and main features.
Optional: paint or add colors
45min
3rd
If you are using cardboard, refer to the resources tab in this activity to learn about cutting and making techniques
15min
Create a slide with all the information, and document your prototype
4th
Slide Example
Prototype
Smell of incense is key but we can’t burn real incense in a museum.
Prompt
Choose one artifact that interests you. Observe it carefully and explore its senses and key properties, then, design and build a small prototype/replica of the artifact using materials (e.g., cardboard, clay, paper) that highlights one or more key senses or features.
Download the sheet to complete by clicking on the above
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Deliverable
A completed artifact recording sheet (turned into a slide) including along with a small prototype or replica of the artifact showing one or more highlighted features or senses.