Look before reading
Notice the format, apparent materials, subject and details that intrigue you. The label can then confirm an observation or change your hypothesis. Moving between looking and reading prevents the title from becoming your entire understanding of the work. Distinguish an individual label from a room panel: a text about a group does not necessarily describe every object. Record your observations first, then the published information, keeping the two separate.
Preserve the nuances of attribution
A name may identify an artist, workshop, maker or production context. ‘Attributed to’, ‘workshop of’ and ‘after’ are not interchangeable. A cautious formulation must remain cautious in your notes. Copy the full attribution rather than only the famous name associated with the object. If an attribution changes, compare the dates and arguments in the records: a new presentation may reflect further research.
Distinguish dates and dimensions
Creation, casting, printing and acquisition answer different questions. A date range or ‘about’ expresses uncertainty; do not turn it into an exact year. Dimensions may exclude a frame, distinguish sheet from image, or vary for an installation. Establish what was measured before comparing. Enlarging an image on a screen reveals neither its actual scale nor the intended viewing distance.
Find the object after your visit
An inventory number helps distinguish works with the same title. Provenance describes an object’s journey; the credit line records a way it entered the collection. Save the institution, number, record URL and consultation date. You can then recover the document even if its title is translated or revised. Check image reuse conditions separately: a documentary reference does not grant publication rights.
Common questions
Does the title always come from the artist?
No. It may be documented, traditional, descriptive or assigned later. Check the record’s explanation.
Why might a label change?
A new attribution, correction or research finding can change the information. Keep the consultation date of your references.
What should I record first?
Institution, inventory number, artist or attribution, title, technique, date and record link.
Method and references
Reading advice and exercises written for this guide. The references extend the documentary and technical explanations. Check visit conditions with each institution.