African Lace
Introduction Does changing an original material destroy its traditional context? If a material assumes new meaning or significance in a new context, is this inherently an appropriation of the object? What loss does this cause, and is it a positive change, a negative one, or neither? This lexicon revolves around African Lace. Through an analysis of this particular material, I broadly explain, craftsmanship, authenticity and reasons behind an object’s creation, including why and how it is made, from which materials, and how the object translates into a specific environment. Various kinds of objects are created in and relate to specific places and time periods. If situated in an environment in which it did not originate, the meaning of an object changes. In fact, the object is used from a new perspective. Although it is possible to reuse an object as a source of inspiration or research, it cannot be used as it was in its previous context. Thus, it is necessary to rethink the authenticity of an object when it is removed from its past context. History is important and can explain a materials origin, and it therefore warrants further attention. A lack of knowledge results in a loss of authenticity and originality of a historical material. In view of this, I develop this Lexicon to elaborate on the importance of this historical attention. It is interesting to consider how an object can influence a user in relation to emotional or even material value. The extent of this influence is uncertain, but it is a crucial aspect since any situation could diminish the value and the meaning of an object.
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