One of the challenges that comes with mobile collections is that the context in which objects are encountered impacts on perceptions and values. These are some of the opportunities and questions raised in incorporating social values into this area of practice.
An object can contribute to multiple narratives and connect to values and significance for a range of communities, beyond the specific history or location to which it is currently ascribed.
Understanding the social values associated with objects and places can help open up discussions on access and use within collection decision-making.
The social values attributed to objects, and the ability to mobilise these in the present, links conservation practice and collections to other organisational priorities and social benefits, e.g. around inclusion and diversity.
Questions:
- How to record dynamic and multiple social values in cataloging systems that are based on discrete classifications?
- How to reflect the multiple values and potential connections of objects when displaying them in different contexts?
- How is the potential for present-day community engagement with and through collections balanced with preservation for future use?
The Case of Hilton of Cadboll concerns a carved stone cross-slab. The upper part (removed in the mid-19th century) is now on display in the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, and the lower part, which was excavated in 2001, is displayed in a community hall near to the village of Hilton of Cadboll in Easter Ross.
The research report by Jones (accessible here) describes how the cross-slab and a replica erected at the excavation site were used in the production of meaning, value and place. Discussions around conservation and presentation are considered in section 6 of the report.
Guidance on understanding the significance of and working with replica objects is provided by the New Futures for Replicas: Principles and Guidance for Museums and Heritage (accessible here).
The Society for Museum Archaeology has compiled this resource: Communicating Archaeology: Case studies in the use of, and engagement with, archaeological collections.