conservation

advice & treatment

identification number

A good object identification system is one of the most important conservation measures. In most cases, this involves assigning an object identification number, which is applied either directly to the object or to an attached label.

An identification number ensures that conservation documentation and archival information can be linked to an object and enables the recording of its location. A good system ensures that all components of a composite object or set can be identified individually.

Applying an identification number to an object or object component – whether directly on the object, by label or other means – is therefore of fundamental importance.

When applying an identification number to glass, follow these guidelines.
— The material used to apply the number must be stable, must not harm the glass, and must be removable without causing damage.
— Do not apply the number to a vulnerable area (a conservator can identify vulnerable areas).
— The number must not obscure any important features of the glass, such as the location of the pontil mark or any other location where important information about the making process is visible.
— The number must be clearly legible, must not be visually obtrusive, and must not wear away or come loose during handling or movement of the object.
— If applying a number directly to the object is not advisable or possible, another form of numbering may be used. If a separate label is used, take extra care to ensure that it does not become detached from the object.

The Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands has researched suitable marker pens for numbering museum objects. FARO, the Flemish support centre for cultural heritage, provides useful information on numbering objects.