Techniques for enhancing the visual attractiveness of archaeological materials on the exposition of the local history museum

Abstract

Archaeological materials are widely represented in the collections of museums of various kinds. Local museums of Russia can boast the richest archaeological collections. This category of objects is one of the most difficult to exhibit. Extracted from the ground, often fragmented and similar objects are priceless evidence of the past, but are not attractive or comprehensible to unprepared museum viewers. For this reason, visitors often pass through rooms dedicated to archaeology without stopping. Museum professionals face the challenge of changing the situation. However, there are several difficulties. In this work, the problems of exhibiting archaeological collections in the halls of local museums are considered. The main methods of displaying the mentioned category of monuments are listed. The need to increase the visual attractiveness of archaeological objects in museum space is justified. The analysis of exposition techniques allowing to focus the attention of the visitor on difficult to perceive archaeological material is made. On the example of showcases of local history museums of Russia, the conclusion was reached on the efficiency of examined techniques and necessity of further modernization of museum space. The theoretical development and practical implementation of successful exhibitions will help to draw visitors' attention to extensive archaeological collections, demythologize science, and to increase the population’s historical literacy.