Histories and Theories of Conservation (AHIS40015)

This subject will include an analysis of the conservation issues in the preservation of ancient archaeological sites, the emergence of the professional painter restorers, art restoration controversies such as the Sistine Ceiling, 19th century criticism by John Ruskin and Viollet-Le-Duc on how Gothic architecture should be restored, ecotourism and the art of indigenous Australian peoples, changes in conservation as a result of new technology, and the conservation of films on celluloid and video. Students should become conversant with the major debates concerning conservation and contemporary museology.