Specialisation
Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage
Ceramics, stone and glass
On the one hand, the course curriculum must provide the basic knowledge to enable students to tackle the wide range of objects and materials encountered in the profession. On the other, the course must contain challenges that stimulate research and the development of a critical approach. Practical work and theory must be closely interwoven from an interdisciplinary standpoint, combining cultural aspects, art history, the natural sciences, technology, ethics, management and cultural politics. It is on these fundamental principles that the Glass, Ceramic and Stone (GKS) course is built.
The Master’s programme begins with the study and of low-fired archaeological pottery and progresses through to higher fired ceramics and glass and, finally, stone. Each module builds on the theory and techniques covered in the previous modules.
The aim of the Master’s programme is to give the students a good theoretical background in the material, history and conservation issues of GKS (sculpture). The theory of practical techniques is supported by the science course, literature study and workshop seminars. Practical application of the theory is found in the form of material testing and the conservation of test dummies followed by treatment of museum-quality objects. The conservation of real objects is central to the programme in teaching observation, research, documentation, ethical considerations and the application of basic techniques. Treating museum objects is important not only for the real practical experience it provides but also for the accompanying discussion with museum curators and professionals.
The Master’s phase provides the basic building blocks on which the PI phase is based. In the PI phase students specialise in either ceramics/glass or stone. From the outset the practical projects, workshops and internships are related to the student’s chosen specialisation.