Abstract: This invention relates to a container for an item, in which the item is selected from the group consisting of musical instruments, furniture and antiques, which container comprises a flexible, gas impermeable material adapted to be disposed around the item or a substantial portion thereof; sealing means for forming the material into a substantially sealed bag around the item or a substantial portion thereof, said sealed bag defining a chamber having an enclosed atmosphere; and means for controlling the humidity of the enclosed atmosphere. The container is particularly useful for musical instruments, especially keyboard instruments. A preservation system for an item and a method for preserving an item which utilize such a container are also disclosed.