ABSTRACT
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were deeply marked by clear hierarchical structures, which were reflected in Prussian-ruled Germany in the military, state, politics, as well as in the cultural sector and its administrations. The size of KM/SMB and its extensive administration limited the autonomy of the KMfV/MfV staff in Berlin when it came to controlling insect pests. The Chemisches Laboratorium of KM/SMB did not provide independent opinions on pest control within individual museums. As a consequence, it is undeniable that the pest prevention and combating measures applied at the time continue to have an effect on ethnographica and other cultural assets made of organic materials at EM, as well as at other museums at SMB. The harm caused by the regular introduction of poisonous active substances and preservation agents is clearly evident and apparent. A further consequence is that individuals who handle such contaminated objects are exposed to ongoing health risks emanating from the previously introduced active ingredients and agents. Consequently, the health and safety of employees, visitors, and indigenous people involved in collaborations and repatriations of cultural artifacts take top priority.
