Behind the scenes: Marking objects with Museum numbers
Detail of a stained glass roundel, about 1500. Museum no. 1239-1855
The number is usually marked directly on the object so it can always be identified and cannot become separated from the documentation about it.
It is important that marking the number on the object does not damage it in any way. At the same time, the number needs to be durable so it will not fade or rub off.
Click on the images below for larger versions and for detailed information about marking specific objects.
Wooden snuff box, 19th Century, Museum no. T.1550A-1913
A woman's shirt for riding dress, Museum no. T.103:4-2003
Maiolica Dish, about 1525, Italy
Caricature of Austin Rudd, George Cooke, about 1904. Museum no. S.392:53-2002
Fragment of stained glass, 17th century. Museum no. Pt.C.417-1915
Boy's sword, about 1775, Matthew Boulton, about 1775. Museum no. 141-1889
One of four legs from a sideboard, 1848-50. Museum no. W.7:4-1967
Bracelet clasp, about 1770. Museum no. M.51-1962
A gift in your will
You may not have thought of including a gift to a museum in your will, but the V&A is a charity and legacies form an important source of funding for our work. It is not just the great collectors and the wealthy who leave legacies to the V&A. Legacies of all sizes, large and small, make a real difference to what we can do and your support can help ensure that future generations enjoy the V&A as much as you have.
MoreShop online
Dior by Dior
A glimpse behind the scenes of haute couture in Dior's fascinating autobiography
Buy nowEvent - Creating the New Jewish Museum
Wed 20 June 2012 13:00
LUNCHTIME LECTURE: Listen to Rickie Burman, Director of the Jewish Museum, as she talks about creating the new Jewish Museum.
More details
