Rare Māori Parrot-Feather Cloak to Shine as Top Exhibit at Perth Museum
A rare 19th-century Māori feather cloak, made from green parrot feathers woven into grass fabric, has been conserved for display in Scotland’s new £27m Perth Museum. The cloak, believed to be the only surviving complete example of a kahu kākāpō, was meticulously preserved with the help of Māori communities and experts from the British Museum.
Acquired by a Scottish doctor in the 19th century, the cloak is a symbol of a 200-year-old connection between Scotland and New Zealand. Conservation efforts at the British Museum involved delicate work to restore the fragile feathers and fibers of the cloak, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
The Perth Museum’s new building, set to open on March 30th, will showcase the cloak alongside other significant artifacts such as the Stone of Scone coronation stone. The collaboration between the museums in Scotland and New Zealand highlights the importance of indigenous cultural heritage and the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation.
Future plans may include the cloak traveling back to New Zealand on loan, further strengthening the bond between the two countries. The opening of the Perth Museum marks a significant milestone in preserving and celebrating cultural heritage from around the world.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.