Heritage science takes centre stage in Bhutan

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London and Cambridge University Library are at the heart of a new international initiative in Bhutan, bringing advanced conservation techniques to support the country’s cultural heritage.

The work is part of the interdisciplinary research project Hidden in Plain Sight, which explores the historical use, transformation, and veneration of sacred texts and objects across different religious traditions.

In partnership with Bhutan’s Museum Division, the UK-based team is delivering practical training and expert guidance to conservators, archivists, monks, students, and cultural officials across the Kingdom.

The visit opened with the traditional wine oblation ceremony, Marchang, followed by a reception attended by Bhutan’s Home Minister and the Head of the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development—underscoring the national importance of the initiative.

Led by Himalayan heritage specialist Dr Ayesha Fuentes and historian Prof. Eyal Poleg

The visit was coordinated by Dr Ayesha Fuentes, Research Associate in Conservation at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge. A specialist in Himalayan material culture, Dr Fuentes has cultivated a 12-year partnership with conservators in Bhutan’s Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development, which laid the groundwork for this latest collaboration.

“This collaboration builds on years of mutual respect and exchange. It’s a privilege to return to Bhutan and work alongside colleagues who are deeply committed to preserving their cultural heritage,” said Dr Ayesha Fuentes.

Workshops in Thimphu

The team ran a series of interactive workshops over three days in Thimphu, engaging participants from the Antiquities and Culture Divisions and local monasteries.

Key sessions included:

• Interdisciplinary project management and heritage research - Eyal Poleg, Principal Investigator, Professor in Material History, Queen Mary University of London
• UV light imaging for artefact analysis - David Mills, 3D Imaging Specialist Lecturer in Imaging and Calcified Tissue, Queen Mary University of London
• Digitisation of books and heritage objects - Maciej Pawlikowski, Complex Imaging Specialist Head of Cultural Heritage Imaging Lab, Cambridge University Library
• Heritage Science: Microscopy techniques for analysing historical woodblocks -Flavia Fiorillo Flavia Fiorillo Postdoctoral Associate, Cambridge University Library

 

“Our work in Bhutan is not just about sharing knowledge, it’s about learning from local expertise and traditions. These collaborations enrich our understanding of heritage and push the boundaries of how science and history can come together.”
said Eyal Poleg, Reader in Material History and Principal Investigator, Queen Mary University of London.

Ongoing Conservation Work

The team also visited Tango Monastery, where they assessed the condition of eighteenth-century murals. They continued to hands-on workshops and surgeries at the National Museum in Paro and The Royal Heritage Museum at Trongsa. Generous funding from QMUL also enabled the donation of specialist equipment to these institutions.

Their work in Bhutan has attracted national media coverage, including a feature on Bhutan’s national television channel.

About Hidden in Plain Sight

Running from 2024 to 2026, Hidden in Plain Sight combines historical research with advanced scientific techniques including 3D microscopy, Micro-CT scanning, DNA analysis, and X-ray fluorescence to investigate the material culture of faith across time and space. Case studies range from Jewish Bibles and Islamic talismans to Buddhist sculptures.

The project unites historians, scientists, curators, and conservators from Queen Mary University of London, Cambridge University Library, the Cambridge Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, and the National Library of Wales.