Papyrus Conservation Seminar at U-Mich

The Papyrus Collection of the University of Michigan Library will host a two-week seminar in papyrus conservation, from Monday, June 16 to Friday, June 27, 2014, directed by Ms. Leyla Lau-Lamb. Participants will receive a hands-on introduction to papyrus conservation. They will learn about equipment and materials used in papyrus conservation and the theory and methodology behind current conservation techniques. They will then utilize these techniques to perform a range of treatment on actual papyri from the University of Michigan’s Papyrus Collection, including written documentation, digital photo-documentation, mechanical cleaning, damp treatments, reduction of folds, alignment of fibers, alignment of fragments, and methods of housing and storage.

The number of participants is limited to eight. Preference will be given to scholars and students who are directly involved with papyrus conservation, whether in the setting of a papyrus collection or archaeological excavations.

There is no course fee for the seminar, which is supported by the University of Michigan Papyrology Collection. Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging and meals. Participants will have the option of purchasing the conservation tools they will use during the seminar. A certificate of participation will be provided at the end of the seminar.