Define the collecting field
Why it matters: a useful boundary makes comparison possible and impulse visible.
Bring: a list of current objects, interests, budget range, space constraints and examples that hold your attention.
Practical result: a one-page acquisition brief covering category, quality thresholds, exclusions and review points. Use it before viewings, fairs or online bidding.
Establish provenance and rarity
Why it matters: an object’s history affects confidence, interpretation, value and future transfer.
Bring: invoices, photographs, catalogue references, labels, correspondence, measurements and condition notes.
Practical result: an evidence file that separates verified facts, informed interpretation and unresolved claims. Keep source copies, not only summaries.
Record emotional meaning
Why it matters: market records cannot explain why an ordinary object may be irreplaceable to a family.
Bring: names, dates, memories, recordings and the wishes of people connected to each object.
Practical result: a short legacy note attached to the inventory record. Write plainly enough for someone outside the family story to understand.
Review value and exposure
Why it matters: luxury goods can preserve value, but markets vary and ownership has costs.
Bring: purchase prices, comparable realised sales, fees, currency effects, maintenance costs and the share of personal wealth represented.
Practical result: a dated value range with assumptions and a review schedule. Treat it as planning evidence, not a forecast or guarantee.
Plan authentication, care and cover
Why it matters: poor handling, unsuitable storage or inadequate documentation can undermine both meaning and value.
Bring: specialist reports, condition records, storage details, security arrangements and current insurance schedules.
Practical result: a care calendar and list of qualified independent specialists to consider. Confirm insurance terms directly with your provider.
Curate and prepare succession
Why it matters: a collection communicates through selection and arrangement; succession decides whether that point of view survives.
Bring: display priorities, likely recipients, legal advice, access instructions and preferences for retention, gift, sale or donation.
Practical result: a collection map linking objects, documents, intentions and responsible people. Review it after life changes and major acquisitions.