The 2026 dig has closed because wet, windy conditions make the ground muddy and risk damaging the archaeology. Post-excavation work continues: Zillah has conserved last week’s fragile barbed arrowhead by gently brush-cleaning it, coating it with Paraloid, and placing it in a protective case. The arrow head along with all metal finds are stored in dry boxes with silica gel and humidity strips; wrought-iron objects require particularly careful, ongoing attention.
Next week, Zillah and I will visit Hector Cole MBE, a specialist in medieval ironwork. He is an exceptional craftsman and one of the few people capable of producing pattern-welded swords and blades. I will share images of our visit next week.
Dry boxes, the best economic option for fragile metal artefacts, the long term home for the barbed arrowhead.
David