Labelling the Unknown

If the material form of an object suggests it is biological then we can opt to choose a taxonomic approach to classification related to Carolus Linnaeus’s binomial system. If the object appears human-made then we could draw upon a materials schema similar to that used by UCL’s Institute of Making to identify the core components of its composition.  From here an attempt at labelling could begin with a description of the objects physical attributes, colour, texture, density, etc

However unless we can source information from those responsible for creating (or using) the object in its intended context, we can only have limited confidence in the accuracy of any textual information we provide alongside the object we have chosen to store and present.

Recognising Perspectives

Is a piece of paper with Chinese script on it a sign, a list, a ripped page of a book or is it a powerful hu-a (charm paper) with ritual relevance? What would it mean if a Museum, a cultural institution largely synonymous with public learning was guilty of deliberately presenting false information?

Does this matter?

When labelling, context and perspective is essential!