Conservators use a selection of equipment to assist with conserving objects. In the lab I have a microscope that enables me to look at and photograph objects in detail. For an upcoming display I conserved a medal from the 1865 New Zealand Exhibition (CS/8836).
Examining the medal under the microscope the engravers/artists attention to detail was amazing. Here is a detail of the kiwi peeking out behind the figure in the front.
Thinking on it I then realised that kiwis are in fact everywhere in the collection….
Grubber the Kiwi (2005/55/1) appeared in Play School television program in the 1970’s and 80’s. In this image Grubber was undergoing conservation treatment on his legs before going on display. (Credit: Toitu Otago Settlers Museum)
Kiwi in case; 1898 2003/114/1 Mounted kiwi in a glass display case. Label on the base reads: "William Smyth Taxidermist, Main South Road opposite Caversham Gas Works", dated in ink: "June 1898". (Credit: Toitu Otago Settlers Museum)
Māori Lodge sign 2002/153/2 Sign reading "Welcome to Lodge Maori". Painted on paper with a wooden backing. Kiwi painted on the left of the sign, with Harbour Cone in the background. It was used at the Ravensbourne rooms.
Kiwi: carved panel of native birds 2001/5/1 Carved panel: wood. Features 18 panels; 17 of the panels show a different native bird of New Zealand and its name, and one panel feature’s the title, 'New Zealand. Some Of The Native Birds'.
Fiona McLaughlan
Conservator – Toitu Otago Settlers Museum.