The weekly tasks vary: sometimes labeling and updating database information, creating foam mounts for the safety of the objects in storage and travel or conducting condition reports. Condition reports are conducted for multiple reasons: accessions, conservation, deaccessions, loans, exhibits, etc. For example, for loans, we document the condition of an object before it leaves as well as when it returns for comparison to note any changes that occurred. I enjoy doing condition reports and love being able to thoroughly inspect and document an object to note things that may not be obvious on first glance.

Early this spring, I finished condition reports and condition photos for some of the Chryso-Ceramic service set collection which is soon to be on exhibit. The collection appears to be pristine, and the
individual cups and saucers as well as other pieces of the set are in good condition. On closer inspection, some of the pieces have small scratches, chips or small stains because they were used by their original owners. Condition reports and close visual inspection can help understand the effects of damage, handling, manufacture, etc. For example, there could be inherent damage due to the manufacturing process. That can be differentiated from damage that occurred during use, age or even from handling. A condition report will be conducted after the exhibit closes to see if there is any new damage from being on display. This information helps improve how staff manages the objects in storage, during exhibit or on loan.

I’m currently working towards my master’s in museum studies, as I intend to pursue a career in collections management. Being able to apply my collections experience to my coursework and vice versa has provided a foundation and preparation for future collections work. Condition reporting is one task that collections staff conduct regularly, and because of the opportunity to learn about this process at History Colorado I’m able to understand common types of damage found on objects.