Forensic investigation of microtraces on an item of Dutch eighteenth century clothing in the Rijksmuseum collection

Abstract Most garments in museum collections have belonged to people of high societal status. Clothing the common people, however, has rarely been preserved. Because this, conservation such rare items is special importance. The current study focuses on an object from Rijksmuseum collection; a pair eighteenth century breeches that were retrieved anonymous grave Spitsbergen. As these contain several unidentified materials, it unclear how best conduct object. identification trace material plays key role within criminal law and therefore, hypothesized forensic approach could provide suitable framework this case cultural heritage as well. After examination, was analyzed using microscopy-based found be mainly biological origin. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy indicated presence human skin remains. It concluded modern can successfully applied historical assist decision-making regarding possible future systematic application methodology appropriate with little no modification classify identify but further improvements made. work should seen starting point allows for more questions objects answered manner, including aspects authenticity, chain custody, context, original use conservation.