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
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