Theses and Dissertations (Tangible Heritage Conservation)
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Item Recreating van der Wielen and de Groot’s (2019) thermocasted Paraloid™ B-72, with a twist.(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) Loubser, Maggi; le Roux, Salomé; Tanya.beukes2411@gmail.com; Beukes, TanyaConserving stained glass is very challenging – when a replacement glass piece is inserted, the lead can become distorted due to the inflexibility of the glass, resulting in more pieces dislodging. Van der Wielen and de Groot devised a method to use thermocast resin for replacement parts because of resins' greater flexibility and colour-matching capabilities. This dissertation attempts to recreate van der Wielen and de Groot's proposed new method of thermocasting Paraloid™ B-72 for use in glass conservation. The primary objective is to successfully recreate thermocasted Paraloid™ B-72 and test this new method's reproducibility. The experiments found that although this method is reproducible, a significant amount of further research must be completed to create a standard procedure for thermocasting. The results of this study will aid in furthering glass and stained-glass conservation, particularly in arid and hot climates. The reproduction of this article was not entirely successful, and it emphasises the need for more detailed research and documentation to create a standard procedure for thermocasting.Item Exploring polychrome traces on 11th century clay figurines from Schroda, northern South Africa.(University of Pretoria, 2024-11-26) Loubser, Maggi; Antonites, Xander; u19201992@tuks.co.za; Diamond, AdriénThis study analysed three selected figurines from the Schroda collection from the Ditsong National Museum of Cultural History. The primary objective of this thesis is to identify and assess any remnants of polychrome pigments present on the figurines, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of their manufacturing techniques and potential functions. By expanding the knowledge base surrounding the Schroda archaeological site, this research seeks to enhance our understanding about the cultural and historical significance of these artefacts and the site they originate from. The study will explore the historical context of the Schroda site and its associated figurines. A thorough documentation process was carried out in which the use of technical photography and detailed condition reports for each figurine was be conducted. These foundational steps provided a comprehensive baseline for further analysis where technical analysis was carried out with a range of methods to investigate the figurines. These include visible light photography, ultraviolet fluorescence (UVF) and infrared (IR) photography, as well as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and Micro-XRF scanning (μ-XRF). In combination, these analytical techniques could determine traces of polychrome pigments found on the figurines.Item Understanding the challenges associated with digitising and storing a private family-based photography collection in Cape Town(University of Pretoria, 2024-11) McGinn, Isabelle; Lavédrine, Bertrand; khayaadams@gmail.com; Adams, Khaya MilesPhotographic materials within the familial context are more than just mere objects. They represent priceless memories that are susceptible to material degradation. State institutions within the Arts in South Africa are generally found to be underfunded and understaffed, and find themselves struggling to caretake even conventional objects. Photographs and negatives are some of the most difficult objects to preserve because of their vulnerability to their storage environment, as well as, the autocatalytic degradation behaviour / aging of older negatives. This research will be focused on the condition assessment of a sample selection of negatives within the author’s personal family photographic collection, as well as, the digitisation and appropriate storage with a focus on prolonging the longevity of the collection as a whole, in a sustainable manner. It is the author’s intention that this paper can be used as a starting point for other South Africans hoping to do the same.Item The forgotten cell : digital preservation of the surface and advocacy through tourism(University of Pretoria, 2024-08-08) le Roux, Salomé; matabologek@gmail.com; Matabologe, KitsoThe study aims to establish a framework for preserving often 'forgotten' but invaluable heritage sites that are deemed preservation worthy, but cannot be restored through remedial strategies due to their often friable and 'sensitive' deteriorated physical states. The study proposes solutions to these heritage dilemmas by focusing on the heritage graffiti located on the holding cell walls and cell wall features of the ‘Mandela cell’, Palace of Justice, South Africa. The intended aim was digital conservation, through objectives of accurate documentation, condition assessment, technical photography and linking digital conservation with heritage tourism. Also, these methods were proposed to persuade a change in the preservation attitude towards South African history and heritage which at first glance does not appeal to a majority of citizens. The study provided background information of the heritage object/site, the Palace of Justice holding cell. Condition documentation and reports were then produced to determine the level of deterioration and stability of the surface of the walls (heritage graffiti). Then, non-invasive technical photography techniques were applied to examine and capture the heritage graffiti. Once these were completed, the technical photographs were linked to digital tourism expanding on the tourism industry. Of importance was the discussion of safe guarding the digital material, which was relevant to the proposed exhibitions and simulations if the advised closure of the space were to be followed.Item Making a case for combating historical dissociation of the ‘Bushmen’ collection at the Iziko Museums of South Africa(University of Pretoria, 2023-11-21) McGinn, Isabelle; Mottie, Bradley; malikah_meyer@yahoo.com; Meyer, MalikahThe study aims to make a case for coining and including historical dissociation as a risk to museum ethnographic collections. The research is based on a 2019 collaboration project between the Iziko Museums of South Africa and representatives of the Khomani San people, where a selection of objects from the ‘Bushmen’ collection were examined by the Khomani San. Iziko’s archival records, notes, and transcripts of the 2019 project highlighted differences between the museums’ recorded provenance and details of the objects and the Khomani San’s knowledge of those objects. The ‘Bushmen’ collection could thus be said to have been impacted by historical dissociation. The present case-study research proceeds by documenting and conducting visual examinations on a selection of the objects reviewed in 2019, along with follow-up interviews with the Iziko staff involved in the 2019 to understand how historical dissociation has impacted the conservation and curation of these indigenous objects and how the inclusion of source communities in caring for their objects can combat the threat of dissociation. The goal of this paper is to raise awareness of historical dissociation as a threat to collections and highlight the importance of revisiting older museum collections for possible historical dissociation, as this impacts the narratives presented to museum staff, visitors, and researchers. By recognising the indigenous knowledge and intangible significance of museum ethnographic collections, museums such as Iziko can create an equal and transparent relationship between themselves and indigenous communities while at the same time pursuing goals of diversity, inclusivity, and museum decolonisation.Item Treasured bodies : an examination of the W.G. De Haas anatomy study resource's pathology collection, technical aspects, and perspectives for conservation(University of Pretoria, 2023-12) Loubser, Maggi; Naicker, Jade; rozellegreyling@gmail.com; Greyling, Rozelle N.Historically, fluid-preserved collections have been recognised as a valuable resource within the discourse of science and medicine. In clinical education and practice, fluid-preserved collections specifically pertaining to pathology have been invaluable in establishing the foundation for understanding disease pathogenesis, prognosis, and treatment. Medical institutions' recent shortage of cadavers necessitates the preservation of cadaveric collections, which include archaeological, anatomical, and pathological wet specimens, for effective teaching and clinical practice. However, as a result of inconsistent cycles of use and dormancy, and the lack of knowledge and preservation skills, many fluid-preserved collections have declined in quality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the relevance, preservation, and long-term conservation of fluid-preserved anatomical collections. As a case study, a technical analysis of selected pathology specimens from the University of Pretoria’s W.G. De Haas Anatomy Study Resource was performed. To better categorise the specimens and understand their materiality, this study examined and documented the specimens through various historical, imaging, and analytical techniques. These techniques included provenance research, observational examination, photography, and analytical techniques such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy. The results from these non-destructive methods have provided further insight into the educational and historical significance of the selected specimens and the Study Resource as a whole. Furthermore, the results have expanded on the limited knowledge available concerning fluid preservation in Africa and has contributed towards facilitating the continued preservation and conservation of fluid-preserved collections in the disciplines of Medicine, and Zoology within the field of heritage conservation.Item Analysing the physical condition and materials of the Kruger House wallpaper and proposing conservation treatment(University of Pretoria, 2023) Loubser, Maggi; u04288181@tuks.co.za; Conradie, Maria MagriethaThere was a catastrophic flood in 2016, where a car hit the fire hydrant in front of the DITSONG: Kruger Museum, (DKM) and a massive amount of water spilled onto the west gable and leaked onto the ceiling of the DKM. The wallpaper in especially SJP Kruger’s reception room has deteriorated extensively. With this study, I would like to give the reader a better understanding of the state of deterioration of the wallpaper. The aim of this study is to create a decision-making framework, that will include the condition of the wallpaper as it is, but also address institutional constraints, the architectural context, as well as the historical value of the DKM through chemical analyses, literature reviews and interviews.Item Should we burn or conserve? A case study of the Moxwera wa Babaso newspaper (1925-1938)(University of Pretoria, 2023) Loubser, Maggi; Kriel, Lize; u12102891@tuks.co.za; Manyike, Nkami BernieceIn this study a condition report is carried out on the Moxwera wa Babaso newspapers (1925-1938). The study then explores two possible conservation methods that could remedy the damage found. The first is towards the digital representation of the content found in the newspaper and the second is towards the physical restoration of the newspapers. As the newspaper is under the guardianship of the National Library of South Africa (NLSA) this study only gives possible treatment suggestions. Storage protocols of the hard copies are discussed, and handling as well as reinforcement methods are considered for the long-term preservation of the actual documents. Digitisation and storage on a website where researchers can apply for access would assist with the long-term retention of the information within the newspapers and assist in making the information accessible to the public in the future. When the information is accessible on online platforms it would limit the physical handling of the actual publications that would assist with the long-term conservation of the newspapers. Under digitisation the following aspects are considered prior to embarking on any digitisation route; management, technology and content.Item A technical examination and discussion of the conservation decision-making process using Anton van Wouw’s Cattle Grazing near Pretoria Zoo (ca. 1896) as case study(University of Pretoria, 2022) McGinn, Isabelle; Havermans-Steyn, Lise; hannes.elsenbroek@up.ac.za; Elsenbroek, Johannes AnthonieThe study aims to examine, discuss and develop a feasible treatment proposal for a damaged oil on canvas landscape Cattle Grazing near Pretoria Zoo that was completed around 1896. The painting is by Dutch-born South African artist Anton van Wouw (1862-1945) who is predominantly known as a sculptor. Therefore, the research aims to position the artist in a new light – that of a painter – since very little of his painting oeuvre has been documented or studied. The painting chosen for the case study was extensively damaged in the past, including storage in a folded state and has undergone several treatments in the past, including marouflage, consolidation and infilling; yet the treatment remains incomplete. The research proceeds by thoroughly documenting the painting using a variety of historical, visual and analytical techniques including technical photography and X-Ray Fluorescence spectroscopy, which are widespread in heritage conservation practices because of their non-invasive and non-destructive nature. The information obtained from these investigations sheds light on van Wouw as a painter, his technique and material use, for which there is currently no data. In addition, the analytical research sets the foundation for discussing the treatment decision-making process that ensues. The treatment proposal employs contemporary conservation ethics as guidance to ensure the integrity of the painting’s history and meaning remains intact, and based on consultations with the painting’s custodian discusses its intended future use and potential avenues for treatment.Item Identifying challenges in the conservation of South African photography based on three case studies(University of Pretoria, 2022) McGinn, Isabelle; Bester, Rory; jabulilintuli@gmail.com; Ntuli, JabulilePhotographs have a visual tie to human memory in that they are used to capture moments of significance, and give a visual illustration of how something looks at that moment and time. Visual representation, in the way it is connected to human memory, has become an important tool in historical and heritage studies. Photographs allow for senses of the past to be seen and experienced, which is one of the primary reasons why pictures are safeguarded. This dissertation focuses on the ways in which photographic conservation gives special attention to the preservation of photographs. I will review the conservation and archival practices that the following three collections use to care for their photographs: the Duggan-Cronin collection at the McGregor Museum in Kimberley, the Bensusan Museum collection at Museum Africa in Johannesburg, and the Rashid Lombard collection, which is being donated to the University of the Western Cape. Each of these three collections tell a South African heritage story as seen through photography from 1866 to present. They cover different aspects that form an integral part of the history of South Africa, including the colonial era, the era of The Union of South Africa, apartheid and the post-apartheid era. It is important to understand the technological and social evolution of photography because how an objectis made, the materials it ismade of, and how it is used in research and exhibition, all influence its longevity, preservation, and deterioration. To complement observations in the three case studies, a survey was circulated through the South African Museums Association requesting participation. The survey allowed for a broader view to be formulated as to how different Museums in South Africa care for their photographs and to guide the formulation of context appropriate guidelines for handling, storage, exhibition and albeit briefly, digitization. Keywords: South African photographic collections Preventative conservation Photographic conservation Collections care and managementItem Home Sweet Museum : investigating the overlap between museum and residence at The Lindfield Victorian House Museum(University of Pretoria, 2022) McGinn, Isabelle; Lindeque, Melissa; nmcollett@gmail.com; Collett, Nancy MaeThe role of conservation within museums is well-established and can be viewed as straightforward due to the ability to control and regulate environments, access, and use of objects. It is far more complex and challenging to reach the same levels of control in open heritage sites, heritage buildings, and period house museums. These spaces combine conservation of the historic structure, as well as furnishings and objects which do not fit neatly within glass display cabinets where light, dust, pollutants, pests, and other so-called agents of deterioration can be kept out or minimized. When a period house is managed as a museum, there are generally controls set in place to mimic the control found in more traditional museum environment: walkways are delineated and carpeted so as to cause minimal damage to original flooring, objects are kept out of reach, furnishings and sensitive areas of a room are cordoned off. Through regular monitoring, maintenance and cleaning, deterioration and damage are kept to a minimum. The Lindfield Victorian House Museum in Auckland Park, Johannesburg is open to the public as a museum – however, it is also home to owner and curator Katherine Love. Love has looked after the beautifully curated home for decades now, maintaining the house and its Victorian and Edwardian contents to blue heritage plaque status. This intersection between home and museum is a complex balancing act. There are certain practices and daily activities performed within the home that are, by their very nature, hazardous to the objects that are within the house. Conversely, it is this day-to-day living, and the very presence of Katherine Love, that brings the museum to life and gives it its quirky edge, making the Victorian past seem present and important. This research offers a chance to examine the house and its contents, identify potential risks to the continued survival of the collection and offer Love some guidance and potential solutions to mitigate these, so she may continue to care for her home-museum hybrid.Item An analysis of paper made from the dung of elephant, rhinoceros and other wild herbivores to develop conservation guidelines(University of Pretoria, 2022) Loubser, Maggi; marindavdnest@gmail.com; Van der Nest, MarindaPaper has been around from the 3rd century BC. From then on different kinds of paper were made but the original recipe remained the back bone of how paper is made today. In this study the different components of paper were discussed to understand what paper is, namely: Cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. The food preferences of elephants and how their food is broken down in the gastrointestinal process showed why the artist could use elephant dung for paper making as shortcut in the papermaking process. The chemical processes to prepare the dung explained the bonding processes of the different components of paper to achieve good quality paper. Paper made from elephant, rhinoceros and other herbivores’ dung were analysed to find out what the components of the paper are and if it will lead to deterioration of the paper. Experiments such as UV light exposure, pH, lignin test, hygroscopic test and tear resistance were carried out on eight different paper samples. The samples were of unsized rhinoceros dung fibre paper, sized rhinoceros dung paper, rhinoceros dung mixed with Sappi paper, only Sappi paper, Kruger elephant dung paper, white rhinoceros dung paper, Chinese artist paper, and newsprint paper. The results showed that because of the low lignin content of the paper, lignin might not have any detrimental effect on the paper. Discolouring of the paper under UV light exposure where possibly because of oxidation where bonds between hemicellulose and cellulose degraded. The alkaline pH of all the paper samples except the newsprint paper, indicated the possible good quality and high durability of the paper. To conserve handmade paper, the guidelines of all the conservational institutions are an essential tool. The main degradation cause of paper is its inherent instability that will increase under heat and fluctuation of relative humidity. It is therefore essential to keep to the conservational guidelines to prolong the lifespan of paper.Item Collections conservation practices and possibilities of contamination by hazardous pesticides : towards a non-pesticide approach of conserving organic collections at the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe(University of Pretoria, 2022) O'Connell, Siona; Loubser, Maggi; u19214686@tuks.co.za; Chiwara, DavisonThe thesis focused on the investigation of pesticide contaminants on organic collections at the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe. Data collection methods used included XRF spectrometry, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, Desktop Survey and interviews. Research findings indicated that the collections at the museum are contaminated with toxic pesticides from historical and current pest control measures used in the museum. The contaminants included heavy metal and organic pesticides.Item Conservation strategies for contemporary street art in Pretoria : a study of Jared Pereira’s public paintings(University of Pretoria, 2022) Loubser, Maggi; carmencat96@icloud.com; Joubert, Carmen CatherinaThis study aims to shed some valuable light on the world of street art in Pretoria and will also explore ways to conserve this art form. This case study is specific to the street artist Jared Pereira, who practices in Pretoria, South Africa. This was done by visiting the artist’s works and is based on an interview with the artist. This is an understudied field in Southern Africa. My study aims to not only investigate artist’s intent, but to investigate the temporality of street art. Focus will also be placed on the environment and experience of street art and how this ties to its conservation (for example through time-based media such as videography and interactive imagery). New practices should be established in the conservation of these public art pieces. My hope is that this study will provide insight into the practical care of street art and both historical and relevant contemporary graffiti under the ideas of ethical boundaries, biodegradation, artist’s intent, and material care. The notion of temporality is not a theme of investigation but an objective of the study. It was concluded that including the artist in the conservation process is integral when possible. Gaining insight into Jared Pereira’s (JESTR’s ) thoughts on his work in museums, moving into the digital world and conserving his works authentically was of great value to add to the very complex conversation surrounding the conservation of graffiti and street art. The way his works mutate with their environments and how he approaches this (by also changing the works and letting the public see what he wants them to see), and his unique use of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to reclaim the temporality and illegality of his works; proves for a fascinating conservation study. Studying the artist Jared Pereira is an illuminating experience concerning street art in Pretoria. It opens up a new world of art accessible to everyone; a world worthy of conservation and celebration.Item I want to tell you my name : augmented reality as conservation method for between words and images by Ernestine White-Mifetu and Toni Giselle Stuart(University of Pretoria, 2022) McGinn, Isabelle; Saptouw, Fabian; u15021123@tuks.co.za; Van der Merwe, San-MariThe conservation of time-based media is seldom straightforward. This is often because the key element in this form of art is not a physical object, but rather its character, message, or how the message is perceived and received by the visitor and their experience of it. Looking at site-specific artworks or exhibitions where the location is tied to a specific meaning, this essay discusses digital conservation options to ensure long-term availability and accessibility. This approach could be particularly significant for exhibitions that, as a result of their theme, content, or social commentary remain relevant today. The approach of digital conservation discussed in the present research allows for the preservation of multiple component parts as a coherent whole as opposed to archival practice which would preserve the various elements separately as text, image, or recording in stasis. AR as a conservation method allows the presentation of both reality and an altered version side-by-side, adding to what the viewer can already see. AR may thus be a modern solution to the ephemerality of revolving exhibitions as it does not require altering a physical location, merely overlaying virtual content into a meaningful location.Item Challenges in contemporary mixed media collections : storage and preventative conservation of South African artists’ books at the Jack Ginsberg Centre for book arts(University of Pretoria, 2022) Loubser, Maggi; lorealvosart@gmail.com; Vos, LorealThe purpose of this study is to investigate some of the difficulties encountered by museums when dealing with mixed media/composite artworks in terms of both collection management and preventative conservation. When it comes to preserving mixed media artworks, conservators face a unique difficulty because there is no single, standard method for doing so. The potential conservation measures required for each material used contributes to this. Artists' books are the subject of this analysis; these are books that have been created or altered by an artist, either as a one-of-a-kind work or as part of an edition, and for which no other medium would adequately convey the artist's intentions. Therefore, artists' books can be made from a wide variety of media and materials. With the use of research and case studies from international museums that contain artist's book collections, this project aims to compile a proposed collection management and preventative conservation strategy for the artists' book collection at the Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Arts. I evaluate the suitability of international museum practices for application in a South African context by comparing them to the Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Arts' existing approach and provide suggestions for how the local system might be improved. So that the collection can be appreciated for many years to come, the specialised system aims to enhance storage management regarding preservation and preventative conservation measures. This is the first research project to examine the importance of proper preservation and storage for this South African artists' book collection.Item The art of ‘looking’ : a technical analysis of Alexis Preller’s Man in the Sun(University of Pretoria, 2021-01) Loubser, Maggi; Nel, Karel; danieleknoetze1990@gmail.com; Knoetze, DaniéleThe study aims to achieve a deeper understanding of the materials and techniques used by Alexis Preller in his early work, Man in the Sun 1936. A survey of the artist’s materials and techniques is of great importance as this information can guide conservators so that appropriate conservation actions can be applied in the future. Furthermore, by investigating Alexis Preller’s Man in the Sun, a greater appreciation and understanding of the painting’s anatomy will be achieved. This work intends to examine and document the materiality and techniques used by Preller through the combination of various historical, visual, and analytical techniques. The analytical techniques used are a preferred response when dealing with the conservation of oil paintings on canvas, because of their non-invasive and non-destructive nature. These techniques include provenance studies, visual examination, technical photography, and X-ray Fluorescence. In combination, the techniques should reveal the materials and techniques Preller used in Man in the Sun.Item Oranjemund Shipwreck : a composition analysis of the Pewter Kitchen Ware And their conservation aspects(University of Pretoria, 2021) Loubser, Maggi; Boshoff, Jaco; henrynakale@ymail.com; Nakale, Henry NapandulweThis research paper deals with the condition and possible conservation treatment of the pewter objects at the Oranjemund Shipwreck Collection. The Oranjemund shipwreck is one of the oldest and most intact wrecks ever to be discovered in Sub – Sahara Africa. It is largely informed by archival research, interviews and X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy. This study is situated within the framework of safeguarding and preserving underwater cultural heritage and is guided by the UNESCO 2001 Convention for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage. It was established that the collection of the pewter objects from the Oranjemund Shipwreck Collection is in a fair condition and presents a very simple class with no pieces of status or any decorations. Unfortunately, the National Museum of Namibia has no qualified conservators and because of that, their conservation department is not functional. Due to this most of the objects at the Oranjemund Shipwreck Collection are not optimally cared for. The researcher, therefore, recommends staff training on conservation and acquisition of proper storage facilities for the Oranjemund shipwreck collection.Item Assessment of preservation of paper records at Lesotho National Archives(University of Pretoria, 2021) McGinn, Isabelle; Minicka, Mary; settermrosse@gmail.com; Namane, MampopiThis paper aims to assess the state of preservation of paper records at the Lesotho National Archives (LNA). The LNA was first established in 1958 while Lesotho was a protectorate of Britain. Museums, libraries and archives are all collecting institutions and although their collections may be of different material types, their collections are all associated with historical, social, artistic, scientific and research ‘value’, to name a few. Archival institutions in the world are mandated with housing some of the oldest records and are working tirelessly to retain the information contained within these records. This mandate comes with many challenges and although these may seem independent of one another, there is some common ground; particularly in African countries where these challenges commonly stem from financial hardships some countries are facing in addition to a lack of awareness of the importance of cultural heritage. The challenges of archival preservation in the LNA mostly stem from a lack of financial backing and a non-existent archival policy. The LNA is committed to preserve its records for future use, but the preservation is not addressed in a uniform manner. Currently, the Lesotho State Library which houses the LNA operates with no allocated budget and this makes it difficult for the archives to source outside means for funding independently because the government has been unable to pay subscriptions to associations such as the International Council on Archives (ICA). The storage in the LNA is built in such a manner that mediocre preventive conservation is achieved with a broken HVAC system, no compliance to a preventive conservation framework and a lack of skills devaluing what protection was partially offered by the building. If the prevailing situation continues, the current deterioration observed will worsen and there is a strong risk of both information and material loss. Keywords Preservation, preventive conservation, records, storage, cultural heritage, archives, deteriorationItem More than Staples and Glue : conservation, heritage and the making of a curriculum(University of Pretoria, 2021) Reddy, Vasu; isabelle.mcginn@up.ac.za; McGinn, IsabelleHeritage collections in South Africa are deteriorating as evidenced by surveys in heritage institutions, interviews and site visits. This can partly be ascribed to a decline in heritage preservation and conservation capacity, this in turn can be attributed to poor succession planning and a lack of local heritage conservation training opportunities. This thesis identifies local conservation needs and challenges by reviewing available local training and consultation processes to engage with various stakeholders. Data collection addressed a description, historical interpretation and analysis of the current state of conservation of collections, as the levels and type of staff training involved in collections care. The research also entails a critical review and analysis of current curriculum development theories to conceptualise formal academic conservation teaching and training to meet local needs and requirements. A curriculum was developed in response to research findings, guided by a review of curriculum development theory in line with criteria for a transformed curriculum. The research contributes to conservation generally, but more specifically, it contributes to archival knowledge on conservation as a profession in South Africa, where publication in the sector is scant. Additionally, although there are many programmes in heritage conservation internationally, few have been the subject of analysis and self-reflection regarding their conception, curriculum development or adaptation, and how they are taught. The thesis addresses this knowledge gap and contributes an original body of knowledge on conservation education in South Africa and abroad in historical, descriptive and analytical terms.