QUICK DEFINITION
The documented history of an object’s origin, ownership, movement, or development.
DETAILED DEFINITION
Provenance provides context around a creation. It can include records of origin, materials, makers, commissions, custody, exhibitions, repairs, and ownership events, with the quality of each record clearly understood.
IN THE CONTEXT OF THE HOUSE
The House treats provenance as a record that must be built carefully and maintained over time. Privacy and consent are part of responsible provenance design.
WHY IT MATTERS
Good provenance supports authenticity, cultural understanding, care, valuation context, and a more honest relationship between an owner and a creation.
RELATED CONCEPTS
COMMON MISUNDERSTANDING
Provenance is not a decorative story, an unverified anecdote, or a guarantee of value. It is only as strong as its evidence and custody controls.
GUIDES & RESOURCES