Key Words

Human Remains
means parts of once living people from the species homo sapiens sapiens (defined as individuals who fall within the range of anatomical forms known today and in the recent past). Human remains include:
       1) osteological material (whole or part skeletons, individual bones or fragments of bone);
       2) soft tissue including organs and skin; and slide preparations of human tissue.

Replica
refers to exact reproduction of human remains, either for the purpose of conservation, display or policy.

Mortuary Practice
means any culturally-specified process (such as, for example, burial or cremation) the purpose of which is to progress towards the final disposition of human remains.

Ancestral Remains
refers to both human remains and spiritual remains of the ancestors.

Culturally Sensitive Information
means all information and knowledge of special religious, spiritual or customary significance, which is considered to be secret, exclusive or restricted by certain community or group according to their tradition.   

 

References:

  • Human Remains in the Collection, British Museum Policy, 2013
  • Indigenous Australian Art Charter of Principles for Publicly Funded Collecting Institutions, 2009
Key Words