OBJECT PROPERTIES
Classification of objects according to their properties
The collections of museums or collectors may encompass a diverse array of objects, including those with cultural and historical significance, works of art, natural specimens, scientific instruments, and even objects without monetary value.
The collections of museums and collectors encompass a diverse array of artifacts, including works of art created from various materials, machines designed for utilitarian purposes, vehicles, and tools extracted from trees, natural stones, and mines. Due to the unique composition and production methods of these objects, they possess distinct qualities, such as size, color, durability, manufacturing technique, age, place of discovery, date of production, brand, model, power, carrying capacity, and thickness. In order to efficiently and effectively manage and preserve these object, which possess vastly different characteristics, museum programs require the ability to meticulously record and manage detailed information about each artifact. To meet this need, Muselera has been developed as a comprehensive system for recording the diverse features and attributes of all types of artifacts.
The following is a list of some of the key characteristics of various artifact types.
- Origin: It refers to the place or culture where the object was produced or found.
- Date: The historical time frame during which the object or structure was produced or in use.
- Material: Objects created from materials such as wood, stone, metal, gold, silver, copper, or glass can have multiple selectable characteristics defined for them. The different materials used in the production of a single artifact can be recorded and searched or reported based on all of these materials.
- Ownership Date: The date of transfer of ownership for the object.
- Provenance: Provenance refers to the history of ownership, custody, or location of a work of art, artifact, or other object. It includes information about who has owned or possessed the object, where it has been kept, and how it has been used or displayed over time. Provenance is important for establishing the authenticity and value of an object, as well as for tracing its cultural and historical significance. Provenance research can also help to uncover information about the object's creation, manufacturing, or use, and provide a context for understanding its place in history. In the art world, provenance is often considered one of the most important factors in determining the value and authenticity of a work of art..
- Importance: The historical, cultural, scientific, or artistic significance of the artifact and its significance to the museum's collection.
- Inventory number: It is a unique identifier number assigned to the work for cataloging and tracking purposes.
- Dimensions: The size of the structure or artifact, including the length, width, height, thickness, and weight of the artifact.
- Storage and transport instructions: Guidelines for safe handling and storage of the artifact to minimize the risk of damage.
- Contextual information: Supplementary information regarding the artifact, such as its cultural or historical context, usage, or connection to other artifacts or collections.
- Bibliography: List of references and sources that provide additional information about the work, its producer, and its context.
- Color: Multiple color selection of objects
The comprehensive features of all types of objects, including those previously mentioned, are meticulously recorded in the Muselera museum program database, without any restrictions, creating a lasting record of each artifact and its significance. This information is vital for the preservation and administration of the museum collection, as well as for research and educational purposes
The documentation of the properties and information of museum artifacts is crucial for their preservation and interpretation. With a thorough understanding of each artifact, museums can safeguard their collections for future generations and effectively share the significance and insights of each artifact with the public through exhibitions and educational programs.