Provenance and Archival Description

Provenance refers to the history and origin of an item or collection, including who created or owned it and how it has been passed down over time. Archival description involves documenting details about these items—such as their content, context, and significance—so that others can locate, understand, and use them effectively. Together, provenance and archival description help preserve the integrity and meaning of historical records, ensuring they remain accessible and meaningful for future research and understanding.