The earlier self-trained restorers managed in spite of lack of professional training to lay an admirable foundation for their profession. It would be advisable if restorers collaborated on excavations, particularly when later scientific investigations are to be carried out and when delicate materials are being excavated. It is suggested that restorers work in laboratories, not in workshops, following the practice in other countries. More could be learnt from colleagues in other countries but for this more attention should be paid to language learning than has been the case so far.