How we can help
MOLA provides a comprehensive service from on-site processing to report writing and archiving. Well developed and adaptable computerised recording systems facilitate analysis of all materials.
Our experienced staff are at the forefront of research and methodological development in their fields. They are available for lectures, workshops and training courses on all aspects of our work.
We offer a range of services, including:
Advice and processing
On-site scanning of material for date ranges
Finds processing – now undertaken in our purpose built facility, designed to provide an economic and speedy service
Finds administration and archive preparation
Identification and interpretation
X-radiography
Packaging
Assessments of assemblages for post-excavation analysis
Advice on standards and the establishment of reference collections
Retention policies, particularly kiln assemblages
Advice on retrieval strategies including metal detecting
Finds research
Lithic analysis
Roman – all classes and materials, particularly copper alloy and iron artefacts, including tools, domestic items, agricultural implements and musical instruments
Post-Roman coins
Glass – all periods
Anglo-Saxon – all categories of material
Medieval – all categories, notably lead objects. London has provided the material for a comprehensive series of medieval finds publications, largely the work of this section
Post-medieval – all categories, notably metalwork and clay tobacco pipe research (see our clay pipe makers' marks website), drawing on the unrivalled resource of closely dated objects from London
Industrial material – our specialists possess a range of expertise in the study of industrial and manufacturing processes
Advice on the identification of materials and restoration of artefacts
Pottery studies
Prehistoric – all wares from the south of England
Roman – all ware types from Britain and much of the Empire (including samian)
Anglo-Saxon – up-to-date knowledge of local, regional and imported ceramics
Medieval – a wide range of all locally made and imported ceramics from 900 to 1480; work by our specialists has produced the fundamental chronology on which all ceramic dating for the region is based
Post-medieval – the full range of pottery used in London and the south of England from 1480 to 1800+, notably local coarsewares, delftware, finewares, porcelain and industrial ceramics
Analysis of ceramic kiln assemblages from all periods
Illustration/preparation of artwork
Advice on research designs and publication strategies
Advice on petrological analysis
Advice on ceramic fabric reference collection curated by the LAARC
For more on all types of finds, please read the finds management capability statement
To make an enquiry about commissioning work, please email newbusiness@mola.org.uk or call 020 7410 2200.
Examples
