> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.wellcomecollection.org/visual-and-material-culture-cataloguing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.wellcomecollection.org/visual-and-material-culture-cataloguing/metadata-framework/metadata-elements.md). # Metadata Elements The Metadata Framework identifies relevant metadata categories (elements) for cataloguing an object from the Visual and Material Culture collection. The identified elements aim to ensure catalogue records contain common metadata content regardless of the system used for cataloguing. The framework reflects the approach of [Cataloguing Cultural Objects CCO](https://vraweb.org/resources/cataloging-cultural-objects/) with practices taken from [Categories for the Description of Works of Art CDWA](http://www.getty.edu/research/publications/electronic_publications/cdwa/) and[ DCRM(G)](https://rbms.info/files/dcrm/dcrmg/DCRMG-A4.pdf). It is recognised it may not be possible to provide content for each category, but the cataloguer should aim to populate as many as available information allows. The cataloguer may have instances where there is additional relevant information about the object that does not fit the elements outlined in the Metadata Framework - in such cases include the information in a note field, or other suitable field for the system being used to catalogue. The framework is designed as a reference on which to build cataloguing instructions for specific databases and systems. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.wellcomecollection.org/visual-and-material-culture-cataloguing/metadata-framework/metadata-elements.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.