This page is part of the International Guidelines for Museum Object Information: The CIDOC Information Categories: a description of the Information Categories that can be used when developing records about the objects in museum collections. For an outline of the Information Groups and Categories in the Guidelines, turn to the introductory list.
Purpose:
Condition information supports Accountability. It helps ensure the physical protection of the object and also supports the identification of objects. Condition information also helps provide physical protection for collections.
Information categories:
Condition
Condition summary
Condition date
Examples:
Condition: fair
Condition summary:
hairline cracks in bowl, repairs to base
Condition date: 1993-12-12
Notes:
Alternate names:
Examination history
Physical condition
Definition:
A single term or code describing the overall condition of an object.
Examples:
good
fair
1
C
Notes:
Move to beginning of Condition
Alternate names:
Condition note
Condition narrative
Definition:
A short description of the overall condition of the object, including observations on the stability, blemishes, repairs, and completeness.
Examples:
Crack on spout, handle missing, stained interior.
Move to beginning of Condition
Definition:
The date the condition of the object was checked.
Examples:
1992-03-23
Notes:
Move to beginning of Condition
Move to outline of the Information Groups and Categories or the next section of the Guidelines, Deaccession and disposal
file: guide.htm; author: CIDOC; updated June 1995