Emphasizes the importance of a thorough examination of the objects, supported by written and photographic documentation intended to maintain links with the culture of origin of the pieces. This view often leads to the recommendation of keeping stabilization and cleaning to a minimum. Topics include guidelines for examination and handling; general problems; possible causes of damage to organic materials, such as wood and plant materials, skin, fur, feathers, and other animal materials; to inorganic materials, such as metal, stone, ceramics, and glass; and to composite inorganic and organic materials. Recommendations regarding care and maintenance, specific to the delicate nature of ethnographic objects are given. Additional guidelines concern the display and storage of these collections.