Plowden and Smith Ltd established their conservation and restoration services in 1966. The company is dedicated to the long-term preservation of historic objects and interiors and has received two Royal Warrants for their work.

Plowden and Smith are committed to the highest standards in craft skills, conservation and material knowledge and understanding. This is upheld through continuous learning, conservation ethics and a deep understanding and appreciation of art and history. The company supports education and academic research training through regular placements with students and interns and when necessary the scientific analysis of artefacts.

Aims and objectives for conservation and restoration:

•Conservation and restoration of objects will take place with reference to ethical guidelines such as the European Confederation of Conservators-Restorers Organisations (ECCO) code of ethics

•Consult with the owner/interested party regarding the desired outcome of conservation/restoration treatments and at key stages throughout treatment

•Document all work undertaken on objects and maintain conservation archives for future reference.

•Provide advice on suitable conservation treatments and the care of objects and collection through condition and environmental surveys

•Encourage senior conservators to become accredited, as recognised by the Institute of Conservation (ICON)

Plowden and Smith have also developed their services to offer a dedicated exhibitions team of conservators and mount making technicians. The combination of museum training and traditional bench skills allow the exhibitions team to work independently, producing mounts to the highest of standards.

Aims and objectives for exhibition work:

•To consult with the owner/interested party in regards to the display methods for an object and aesthetics and “house style” of an exhibition.

•To use materials that are of a high quality and where necessary of conservation standard such as acid-free card and materials that have passed accelerated aging tests.

•To develop mounting techniques that are aesthetically pleasing, discreet and functional.