Hidden in the Archives Research
Mini Book to be published soon, by Auckland Museum
Heirloom textiles By Anna Deacon, Research Associate & Jane Groufsky curator, Social & Human history at Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum
Charles Samuel Milward – Auckland Museum Suit T433
Exquisite 1799 portraits by John Russell R.A. of Charles and his wife Susannah are at AUCKLAND ART GALLERY
their location and connection to the auckland museum collection was discovered as a result of my research
Over the centuries, the coat and waistcoat silk twill linings have degraded and shattered. As unfortunate as this is for preservation, as a researcher it allows valuable access to what would otherwise be hidden details, providing a far greater understanding of internal construction methods and materials – a window to study the garment’s structural layers. In addition, areas of degradation indicate the points within a garment that withstood the most wear and strain, forever leaving a unique mark of the wearer from sweat and oils and an understanding of how the garment was worn.
By request via email to anna@annadeacon.com a 100% paper pattern, which can be either folded or rolled upon request, can be purchased, with a unique, password-protected QR code to link to detailed original artefact photographs, research and construction details. Providing detailed information in this way allows for the most explicit presentation, with the ability to zoom into images and provide hyper-links to other resources. Additionally the service of pattern grading can be undertaken, also reproduction private commissions, price upon request.
This QR system has also been applied to my website, http://www.annadeaconcouture.com, for research links for all of the other Hidden in the Archives research artefacts.
Additional fun elements included with the Museum collection are Milward’s Bicorne Hat and engraved cane.
Anna Deacon Couture 