Collaborating with a Source Community to Conserve two Sámi Coffee Bags by Combining Established Conservation Treatments and Traditional Preservation Methods

Abstract

This article summarizes a masters dissertation project from 2019, whose aim was to collaborate with a Sámi source community and decide on a suitable conservation treatment for two coffee bags (gáfeseahkkat in Sámi). Technical examination was carried out using light microscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to investigate the powder on the surface. Discussion with members of the duodji (Sámi handcraft) community was then carried out with the aim of discussing the technical findings, the cultural significance of the duodji coffee bags, and traditional knowledge of duodji techniques and Sámi preservation methods. The purpose was to uncover hidden traditional knowledge and evaluate whether suitable and established conservation treatments could be combined with traditional Sámi preservation methods.