In their introduction to the dossier Collections techniques et scientifiques en quête d’enquêtes [Technical and scientific collections in search of research], the authors recall the delay in museum historiography with regard to scientific and technical collections. On the contrary, they emphasise the rich potential of studies devoted to these objects and groups of objects, and they argue in favour of a comprehensive study drawing on all available documentary resources. They consider that such an integral approach (objects, contexts, archives) will enable the collections to retain or regain their scientific relevance, as well as their legitimacy for conservation and promotion to the public.
