The Centre for Materials Science and Technology, University of Otago, New Zealand, is undertaking research evaluating the efficacy of consolidation treatments for black-dyed Māori textiles. Black (iron tannate)-dyed plant fibres used in Māori textiles often deteriorate quickly (due to the dye method and the chemistry of New Zealand plant fibres) rendering entire collections (national and international) of Māori textiles unstable, impossible to put on display and in danger of complete deterioration and consequent loss of cultural knowledge. Information about the safest consolidation treatments for such textiles is urgently needed.
The first stage of the research is to select consolidation treatments to include in the experimental program. Unfortunately, very little published information exists to guide the selection. To ensure we make the most informed choices possible, we have designed an online survey.
Dr Bronwyn Lowe and Dr Catherine Smith