Documenting Your Collections
Info-Muse Network Documentation Guide

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Special cases

Incomplete objects

An incomplete object must be classified in the same way as a complete object. Indicate the exact name of the object in the Object Name field, specifying if necessary that it is a potsherd or a fragment.

Unidentified objects

When a complete object cannot be identified, it is recommended that you use category 10, "Unclassifiable Artifacts," and the "Function Unknown" sub-category and enter "unidentified object" in the Object Name field. This will make it easier to locate all these objects when conducting more exhaustive research to identify them.

When an incomplete object cannot be identified, it is recommended that you use category 10, "Unclassifiable Artifacts," and the "Artifact Remnant" sub-category and enter "unidentified object" in the Object Name field.

Objects identified but with unknown function

When the precise function of an identified object is unknown, enter the exact name of the object in the Object Name field and classify it in category 10, "Unclassifiable Artifacts" and the "Function Unknown" sub-category.

N.B.: Associating this object with other objects in the collection may make it possible to determine its general function. If so, it is recommended that you enter a more specific function.

Objects of which the known function is not the usual function

In some cases the known use of an object may differ from the function normally associated with the object. In such cases the known function takes precedence.

In the latter case, since the object could be of interest both to those looking for medical instruments and to those looking for tools for working these materials, it is best to indicate both categories and both sub-categories.¹

Objects of which the function has been changed

An object may be difficult to classify because its function has been radically changed. This is the case for certain objects found at archaeological sites that have evidently been reused for a purpose other than the function for which they were originally designed. The choice of classification must be based on the original function of the object. Use the History of Use field to enter descriptive information on the different functions of the object.

On the other hand, if it is because of its most recent function that the object was included in the collection, or if the object has been so transformed that it is practically impossible to recognize its initial function, it should be classified according to its most recent function.

The Info-Muse system allows you to enter two classifications, i.e. the classification related to the object's original function and its most recent function, if this is considered desirable for purposes of research and dissemination of knowledge.

Multiple-use artifacts

When an object has several uses, it may be difficult to select the appropriate classification. To increase the likelihood of the object being found in database searches, it is recommended that you enter two classifications so as to be as specific as possible.

When the object can be classified in more than two categories and sub-categories, enter it in category 10, "Unclassifiable Artifacts," and the "Multiple Use Artifacts" sub-category.

Raw material

Raw materials are objects that have undergone initial processing from animal, plant or mineral materials. They have not yet been transformed into useful objects, however, and it is often impossible to know their final or intended use, making it difficult to classify this type of material. It is recommended that you consider raw materials as supplies used in working with different types of materials and classify them in the appropriate sub-categories of category 4, "Tools & Equipment for Materials."

Scale models and miniatures

Problems in classifying a model or miniature are often related to identifying the object and determining its function. Once again, you should look to the original function of the object to decide on the most accurate classification.

A model that represents a project or a scale model of a theatre set, building, device or vehicle is intended mainly to communicate information. The same applies for a miniature whose sole purpose is to represent a life-size object on a smaller scale, with no decorative or utilitarian function. Consequently, such objects should be classified in category 8, "Communication Artifacts," and in the "Documentary Artifact" sub-category. In the Object Name field, indicate that it is a model or miniature. If you have more details on the exact identification of the object, you can enter them in the Title field.

When the known function of a model or a miniature makes it possible to associate it with another classification, as in the case of toys, promotional objects or pieces of art, use the appropriate category and sub-categories.

Models and moulds

Models and moulds can be difficult to classify because of problems in identifying such objects. It is important to decide on the specific function of each one. A model is a standard, most often made of wood, used for the serial production of similar objects. The model is used as the imprint when making a mould. A mould is "a hollow form or matrix for shaping a fluid or plastic substance."² Models and moulds are used in manufacturing finished products. You should select the classification associated with this function, rather than the function of the finished product.