Whether on display or in storage, the mount and packaging of an artefact is important to consider. Not only can a good mount improve its visual impact, poor packaging can lead to damage.

​

This bracelet of silver coins required a custom mount while on display. As the coins overlap, using a flat mount underneath would have put pressure on the fastenings and distorted the shape. Instead, Plastazote was carved to hold and support each coin at a slight angle, allowing the bracelet to sit naturally. As the indented cushion kept the artefact in place, it was able to be displayed at a sixty degree angle without slipping, making it easier for the audience to view.

​

The second slide shows a Scottish basket hilt broadsword and a bridle gauntlet. Even through the sword had been blunted by its owner, safety was still a priority in designing its mount, so custom perspex fittings were cut. These were screwed to the backboard, preventing the sword from being moved, and lined with Plastazote to act as a cushioning layer.

It was decided to display the gauntlet on its side, as shown in the photo. To best support the artefact in this position, multiple layers of Plastazote were cut, following the shape of the gauntlet. This allowed it to sit on its side, apparently unsupported, in a very stable position. An additional block of Plastazote was placed below the thumb, to provide additional padding and prevent strain at the joint. The Plastazote mount was then inset in a display box.

​

The third slide shows a collection of birds wrapped for transport. These artefacts had formed part of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery's exhibition around the Dippy on Tour display. Each bird was wrapped in acid free tissue paper to protect their feathers, before being grouped in crates. Padding was then added to prevent them moving and damaging eachother during transport to another building.

​

This spearhead was part of an excavation in Lincolnshire. In order to support it after treatment, a support was made for it. This consisted of two pieces of Plastazote cut to size and adhered to a backing board. Special care was taken to support the point of the spear where the metal had been bent and was fragile. The Plastazote was cut close to the artefact, to prevent it being able to move, and a bag of colour changing silica gel beads was stored with it to control the relative humidity within the bag.

​