Museum Provenance

Museum provenance refers to the history of ownership and custody of an item within a museum's collection. It tracks the journey of an artifact from its origin—whether crafted or discovered—through its transfers, documentation, and any sales or donations. Provenance ensures that the item is authentic, helps establish its value, and verifies that it was acquired legally and ethically. Understanding provenance is essential for museums to address issues of cultural heritage, restitution, and the item’s significance, ultimately preserving its story and context for future generations.