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Abstract
The interpretation of excavated archaeological organic assemblages for display can be a challenging endeavour, all the more complicated where they are in a state of poor preservation. This contribution illustrates the role of conservation in the interpretation of such artefacts. A complex assemblage, excavated in Theva in 1985, was later sent to Athens for investigation, conservation and display. The assemblage included textile, wood, bones, ceramic and the surrounding soil, with evidence that some of these materials had been deliberately or accidentally burnt. Instrumental analysis was crucial in giving information on the composition, properties and state of preservation of the finds. Collaboration between the conservators and the archaeologists was also vital to the decision-making process. Several options were considered in order to select the most appropriate and objective way to present this find and communicate the information it revealed to the public.