Matrix Riemann-Hilbert problems with jumps across Carleson contours.

We develop a theory of n × n -matrix Riemann-Hilbert problems for a class of jump contours and jump matrices of low regularity. Our basic assumption is that the contour Γ is a finite union of simple closed Carleson curves in the Riemann sphere. In particular, unbounded contours with cusps, corners, and nontransversal intersections are allowed. We introduce a notion of L p -Riemann-Hilbert problem and establish basic uniqueness results and Fredholm properties. We also investigate the implications of Fredholmness for the unique solvability and prove a theorem on contour deformation.