OBJECT ID
CHECKLIST
Object ID is the result of a collaboration among the museum community, police and customs agencies, the art trade, the insurance industry, and valuers of art and antiques to bring into use an international standard for describing art, antiques and antiquities.
Take Photographs
Photographs are of vital importance in identifying and recovering stolen objects. In addition to overall views, take close-ups of inscriptions, markings, and any damage or repairs. If possible, include a scale or object of known size in the image.
Answer These Questions:
Type of Object
What kind of object is it (e.g., painting, sculpture,
clock, mask)?
Materials &
Techniques
What materials is the object made of (e.g., brass, wood,
oil on canvas)? How was it made (e.g., carved, cast,
etched)?
Measurements
What is the size and/or weight of the object? Specify
which unit of measurement is being used (e.g., cm., in.)
and to which dimension the measurement refers (e.g.,
height, width, depth).
Inscriptions
& Markings
Are there any identifying markings, numbers, or
inscriptions on the object (e.g., a signature,
dedication, title, maker's marks, purity marks, property
marks)?
Distinguishing
Features
Does the object have any physical characteristics that
could help to identify it (e.g., damage, repairs, or
manufacturing defects)?
Title
Does the object have a title by which it is known and
might be identified (e.g., The Scream)?
Subject
What is pictured or represented (e.g., landscape, battle,
woman holding child)?
Date or Period
When was the object made (e.g., 1893, early 17th century,
Late Bronze Age)?
Maker
Do you know who made the object? This may be the name of
a known individual (e.g., Thomas Tompion), a company
(e.g., Tiffany), or a cultural group (e.g., Hopi).
Write a Short Description
This can also include any additional information which helps to identify the object (e.g., color and shape of the object, where it was made).
Keep It Secure
Having documented the object, keep this information in a secure place.