11/04/2014

Identification of Mammalian Sources of Cultural Materials Project

Identification of Mammalian Sources of Cultural Materials Project
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About the Project:
The identification of materials from Native American cultural objects to the species level contributes significantly to the documentation of museum collections, academic research, and self-determined, indigenous, and descendent community study.  Recently, the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology has collaborated with other museums and indigenous groups to study the mammalian materials that are represented in museum collections.  These collaborations have contributed not only to a greater understanding of the objects being studied but also to cultural revitalization efforts.  Currently, the Peabody Museum is engaged in developing a new application of an analytical technique called Peptide Mass Fingerprinting (PMF).  This effort is partially supported by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training, a unit of the National Park Service.