An ethnographic field collection is an unpublished group of materials that has been collected and organized by a cultural researcher. The researcher may be an anthropologist, folklorist or ethnomusicologist. Their goal is to document the history of specific cultures and traditions. An ethnographic field collection may consist of materials from a wide range of formats. These might include sound recordings, drawings, photographs, field notes, and correspondence. While the individual items in an ethnographic field collection might have some individual value, its real significance can only be realized when viewed in the context of the rest of the collection. In many cases, works of ethnographic art are the result of these studies and collections. These are pieces whose value extends beyond the aesthetic. They are a distinct reflection of the culture in which they were created. As such, these works of art have their own intrinsic educational value. People who collect ethnographic art and antique collectible ethnographic items choose to do so either because of an academic fascination with a particular country or culture, or because of an affinity towards an area that they have visited. Ethnographic arts might include painting, sculpture, masks, statues, pottery or jewelry. In some cases, you might be able to find household items such as kitchen utilities of an ancient culture. Ethnographic arts can either be organized by cultural themes, or by mixing works of different cultures whose colors and patterns work well together. Prior to buying this type of piece, make sure to check with the dealer regarding any sort of care the piece will need in order to keep it well preserved. |
