Conservation of Northwest Native Ceremonial and Utilitarian Clothing

This presentation details the conservation of ceremonial and utilitarian clothing from Native American Nations in the Northwest United States, part of the Burke Museum’s collection at the University of Washington in Seattle. The presenter, a textile conservator, describes her work evaluating and conserving four culturally significant garments: a Lummi Nation ceremonial dance tunic, a Tlingit Nation red wool tunic, an Inupiaq seal gut parka, and a Yakama Nation deer hide wedding dress. The journey began in 2011 at the North American Textile Conservation Conference, where the presenter connected with museum professionals from North America.

After starting to volunteer at the Burke Museum in 2015, the presenter evaluated objects, focusing on these garments due to their cultural importance and conservation challenges. Each garment’s condition, materials, and proposed conservation treatments are detailed, addressing issues like material loss, degradation, and bead loss. Techniques included stabilizing fabrics with silk or muslin supports, reattaching beads, and cleaning with neutral detergents or water-ethanol solutions. The Lummi tunic, made of wool taffeta with bead and wooden decorations, faced potential repatriation, reflecting the spiritual value of such items over material permanence. The Tlingit tunic, adorned with intricate beadwork, was conserved for permanent exhibition. The Inupiaq parka, made of seal gut, required specialized cleaning and patching due to its unique material. The Yakama wedding dress, crafted from tanned leather with elk teeth and beads, was stabilized to preserve its structure.

The presentation highlights the intersection of conservation, cultural sensitivity, and Indigenous traditions, noting the Burke Museum’s renovation and the spiritual significance of ceremonial garments, such as their potential ceremonial burning in Lummi and Swinomish traditions.

This is a virtual event. Join https://washington.zoom.us/j/94545347242 to access the event.