The study of material culture encompasses the material and the symbolic properties of things. Approaches based on an understanding of material culture can help with the conservation of textiles because they encourage considerations regarding changes in their properties, both material and symbolic, over time. Examples of textile conservation illustrate material culture in action to the extent that they analyze the challenges posed by garments deliberately concealed within buildings to conservation. The significance attributed to such textiles varies: some are valued as rare samples of clothing; others are appreciated for their protective function; while others are viewed as rubbish. The conservation strategies are indicated by the significance attributed to these textiles.
Material Culture; Textile Conservation; Collections; Exhibition
