Currently in Spain, the Quimbaya collection has been considered an extraordinary example of pre-Columbian archaeology since its unearthing in the late XIX century. Through guaquería, political...Show moreCurrently in Spain, the Quimbaya collection has been considered an extraordinary example of pre-Columbian archaeology since its unearthing in the late XIX century. Through guaquería, political gifts and many changes of location, this group of artefacts is currently still at the forefront of archaeological debate, though not just due to its artistic and historical value, but due to the controversy surrounding its presence in Madrid, and the petitions of repatriation made by Colombia. This paper will take the Quimbaya collection and explore its history and technical aspects, as well as presenting the legal, ethical, and cultural debates it has sparked, culminating in a look towards the potential futures of this collection.Show less
Object-based learning explores material culture by giving audiences increased tactile access to museum collections, and has been available in a growing number of museums throughout the United...Show moreObject-based learning explores material culture by giving audiences increased tactile access to museum collections, and has been available in a growing number of museums throughout the United Kingdom. The purpose of this study was to explore whether current practices are sustainable, and for this it used fourteen case studies of UK-based museums and archaeological organisations which provide object-based learning opportunities. The study suggests that practices are currently sustainable the way they are, with the loan kits especially being a manageable service and great use of archaeological materials that benefits from the regular and consistent needs of schools. However, it is also viewed that reaching out to a different and more unpredictable audience, or being subject to other more unexpected changes such as a change in curriculum would constitute a serious challenge to this sustainability. It is hoped that such research will encourage a wider discussion on the future direction of archaeological material within object based learning collections.Show less
