Pelerine (Collar or Cape) c. 1830–1860 Northeastern Woodlands, Great Lakes/St. Lawrence River Region or Europe Cotton, peacock feathers, guinea fowl feathers, Gadwalls duck feathers. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of the Textile Art Alliance in honor of their 60th Anniversary, 1996.14

Do you have an object that you consider precious: a treasured toy, an item of jewelry handed down from your grandparent, or your favorite piece of clothing? Or something else? All of these are cultural heritage objects, because they can tell others in the future something about YOU. 

Cultural heritage, also called cultural property, refers to many kinds of physical things that humans have made across time. These objects can tell us the stories of the people who made them, used them, and treasured them. Material cultural heritage includes many different objects that people have made, from ordinary to special: buildings, paintings, sculptures, books, furniture, clothes, tools, musical instruments, and more.  

Learning about the different materials people have used to make artworks, artifacts and objects throughout time helps us understand how best to preserve these objects for future generations. 

 as a material for making artworks and useful objects in many different time periods all around the world. Feathers have been used by humans for thousands of years, and there's a lot to learn about why people loved using them so much. Let's explore some reasons, what they might symbolize, and discover times in history when feathers were incredibly valuable—even more than gold!

The major Maya grave offerings on Jaina Island were ceramic figurines that depict deities and humans in a variety of roles. The standing figure represents a warrior who once probably held weapons and wears either quilted cotton armor or the feathered uniform of a military order. The seated figure also represents a male, perhaps another warrior, who wears a huge zoomorphic headdress. A skeletal face with articulated jaw descends from the headdress to fit as a mask over the figure’s face.

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ICA-Art Conservation

Seated Lord with Removable Headdress

Why have people always loved making things with feathers?

Feathers are colorful and come in many shapes and sizes. People used them to make beautiful hats, clothing, and accessories. They added a touch of elegance and style to anyone who wore them.

In many cultures, wearing feathers showed that you were important or powerful. Chiefs, kings, and other leaders often wore feathers to display their status. Some feathers were rare or hard to get, so they symbolized that the wearer was someone special. 

Feathers were also practical. They were used to make warm clothing, comfortable bedding, and even writing tools like quill pens.

Freedom and Flight: Birds can fly high in the sky, so feathers often symbolize freedom and the ability to soar above challenges.

Spiritual Connection: In some cultures, feathers are seen as a link to the spiritual world, again often because birds can fly high above the earth to where otherworldly beings live. They are used in ceremonies and rituals to connect with the divine.

Strength and Courage: Feathers from powerful birds like eagles are symbols of strength and bravery.

Times When Feathers Were More Valuable Than Gold

Aztec and Mayan Civilizations: In ancient Mexico, feathers from exotic birds like the quetzal were highly prized. These feathers were used to make elaborate headdresses for royalty and were more valuable than gold.

European Fashion: During the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe, feathers became a major fashion statement. People paid huge amounts of money for hats decorated with feathers from exotic birds. This demand was so high that some birds became endangered!

The Feather Trade: At different points in history, there was a booming trade in feathers. They were traded across continents and valued like precious gems and metals.

A brightly colored tunic made with feathers.

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Feathered Tabard or Tunic

Feathers have always held a special place in human history, symbolizing beauty, power, and spirituality. They remind us of the creativity and resourcefulness of people throughout the ages. So next time you see a feather, think about its amazing history and the many ways it has been treasured by people around the world!

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