Cataloging a Collection

Accession numbers, object names, measurements, materials, marks, provenance, condition, photos, location, and updates.

Start with a written record

Assign an object number. Photograph the object before cleaning or disassembly. Record measurements, materials, construction, marks, surface, condition, provenance, and every visible alteration.

Separate observation from interpretation

Write what can be seen first. Then list hypotheses about maker, region, period, use, and ownership. Label family stories, dealer statements, and seller descriptions as reported information until documentary or physical evidence supports them.

Use matched references

Compare documented museum examples, scholarly catalogs, maker records, regional databases, auction archives, and marketplace results. A similar silhouette is not enough; construction, dimensions, materials, decoration, marks, and surface should align.

Protect the object

Do not clean, polish, refinish, remove labels, replace hardware, wash textiles, unfold fragile paper, power an old electrical object, or test an unknown finish before identifying the material and risks.

Know when to use a specialist

High-value, unstable, hazardous, culturally sensitive, legally restricted, heavily altered, or scientifically significant objects may require an appraiser, conservator, curator, tribal representative, attorney, auction specialist, or laboratory.