From the Golden Age to the Digital Age: Modelling and Monitoring Historic Tapestries

Many rich collections of tapestries survive and are displayed in museums and historic houses but they are often in poor condition and in need of extensive conservation treatment. The selection of tapestry support and display techniques is still largely based on experience and intuition. This study will, for the first time, enable conservators, curators and conservation scientists to base decisions in a more complete understanding of material properties when treating these complex objects, using computational modelling and strain monitoring techniques to gain data on tapestry properties and behaviour. The project offers exciting opportunities to work on site in a world-class museum environment at the Burrell Collection, and at one of Scotland’s most popular historic sites, Stirling Castle. The project has already started and initial results look very exciting.

The student will focus on the strain monitoring research using digital image correlation to test different conservation stitching techniques and different display scenarios. The student will create physical models of tapestries which will be subjected to loading tests using tensile testing equipment before moving to test conserved samples of historic tapestry from the Centre for Textile Conservation Reference Collection. This element of the research will also focus on historic tapestries from the Burrell Collection and a newly woven tapestry at Stirling Castle.

This is an opportunity for either a conservation graduate or an engineering graduate; the project will require an ability to cross discipline boundaries. Over the course of the project the student will be thoroughly immersed in both the theory and practice of tapestry conservation, while also developing skills in strain measurement, using digital image correlation, and mechanical testing. The student will ultimately gain a comprehensive understanding of the application of engineering techniques to conservation challenges; a valuable skill-set allowing the successful candidate to continue with a career in the heritage sector, the industrial textiles/composites field or in academia.

For further information or an informal discussion about the project and the studentship please contact Frances Lennard ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Philip Harrison ([Email Address Removed]).

Please send your application to [Email Address Removed]. Your application should include:
• A statement of no more than 1,000 words describing in detail your interest in and suitability for undertaking this project
• A current CV
• Degree transcripts (this may be an interim transcript if you are still studying)
• An example of scholarly work up to 3000 words in length (e.g. coursework essay, or a dissertation chapter)
• 2 academic references (these may be sent directly from your referees if they would prefer)