The Crosby Garrett helmet

[mcbishop]

Since this was done by a reputable conservator, so far as I understand

Do you? Who?

No, he'd almost certainly have used a sonic screwdriver, rather than a mallet, a tub of polyfilla, and some HMG... ;-) )

Because I know what proper archaeological conservation and analysis is, and if creating this pastiche from all those bits has involved reshaping the metal, and no data is forthcoming to add to our knowledge of these helmets, the technology of this one or the circumstances of its deposition, or even recording the nature and extent of its "restoration", then proper archaeological conservation and analysis it certainly isn't.
http://paul-barford.blogspot.com/2010/1 ... te-to.html

Sadly there is a long history of bashing Roman helmets back into shape after they have been dug up (there is even a substantial section in one of the Xanten reports that deals with this). Some have bothered to analyse them first, but most find it verrryyy difficult to resist the urge to restore the object back to its 'original' state (overlooking the whole taphonomy issue which means that for some the 'original' state is precisely the bashed-about state in which it is excavated). Personally I have always found this as disturbing as the modern trend for 'poodling' artefacts, even though I understand the reasons for both activities.

None of the conservators with whom I have ever worked would do that sort of thing (I hope!), but one can see why the art-historical (and financial) exigencies of the task in hand would have led to the final result. Doesn't make it right, but I think we have already established there are lessons to be learned at many levels from this whole sorry tale.

Mike Bishop