This factsheet assists in the identification of hairs from a kahu kurī (dog-skin cloak). Artefacts, or taonga, may incorporate animal hairs, or animal skins.
Most diagnostic features for this species
Medulla of guard hairs can vary from simple with scattered globular vacuoles to very fine wide lattice.
Cross-section usually a mix of circular and oval shapes.
Large diameter
Sample
Description: Kahu kurī. Six individual hairs (four guard hairs, two underhairs). Root and tip absent from all hairs.
Collection: Te Papa Tongarewa
Accession number: ME2484 AC07
Hair profile
General shape: Slight wave, curved or straight
Length (mm): 70 - 105
Maximum diameter observed (μm): 75 - 100
Colour: White, dark brown, or showing colour change from dark brown to white along shaft
Microscopic features
Kahu kurī. Medulla: wide lattice. Note colour change from pale to dark tan. Image: Bronwyn LoweKahu kurī. Medulla: wide lattice. Note colour change along shaft.. Image: Bronwyn LoweKahu kurī. Scales: irregular wave, smooth to crenate margins, near to distant separation. Note colour change along shaft. Image: Bronwyn Lowe
Citation
Lowe B, Wehi PM. 2017. New Zealand hair identification factsheets: Kurī: Kahu kurī https://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/tools-and-resources/identification/hair-sample-identification-and-factsheets/hair-from-artefact/kahu-kuri-hairs-me2484-ac07 Accessed: 18 November 2020
