Object Type

Required: 2D Objects, 3D Objects, Born Digital. Repeatable

Definition

This identifies the specific type of object being catalogued. It determines how to refer to an object.

Object Type in the Wellcome Collection catalogue refers to physical form and/or function. The medium/technique is recorded as a separate element.

Terminology

Object Type is recorded using controlled vocabulary to ensure consistent terminology in the catalogue. Where terms do not already exist in the Wellcome catalogue, select a suitable term from the Getty Art & Architecture Thesaurus.

For born digital objects, use the broad term 'image file'.

Allocating multiple terms and specificity

Multiple terms can be chosen for the same object or group of objects, if known or applicable.

2D Objects

For 2D objects include a broad term to describe the object type, and where possible a more specific term. Select the broad term from the following:

• drawing

• painting

• photograph

• print

If a more specific term cannot be allocated to the object, or is not known, the broad terms listed above are sufficient. In such a situation the broad term can be repeated in the record if required by the cataloguing system.

Include all the relevant terms for the object or group of objects being described in the catalogue record to optimise access.

4 image files

drawings, paintings

1 print

poster

5 photographs

glass plate negatives, sheet film

Related Elements

Object type terms for 2D graphic objects may be duplicated in the Technique element. The broadest applicable Object type is recorded in association with the Number of Objects