An outline is given of the development of the department from the early years. Gives details of the arrangement of the studios, their lighting, humidity control and basic equipment such as hydraulic easel and chair, motorized microsope and infra-red vidicon television equipment. In addition, sections cover the various workshops where panel treatment, lining, blister treatment and basic carpentry are carried out. Finally, two sections are devoted to conservation records-records of the condition and treatment carried out on all pictures in the collection -- and the organization of the department's staff.