Gemsmakers · Object record studio
Antique Loan Condition Change Comparator
Prepare a consistent before-and-after observation record for a loan, exhibition, transport, or custody hand-off. Compare the same object areas, note image references, and organize questions for the responsible collections professional.
Make comparisons useful
Use comparable views, lighting and terminology where possible. Record what is visible, where it appears, when it was observed, and which image or record supports the note. Separate direct observation from interpretation.
Observation is not diagnosis
This tool does not assess stability, cause, significance, treatment, authenticity or conservation condition. Do not handle an object to complete a comparison unless authorized. Escalate a suspected change through the agreed institutional process.
Comparison context
Compare object areas
Create an entry for each relevant area. Use neutral language; do not infer a cause from an apparent difference.
Review and export
Good comparison practice
Before recording, confirm that you have permission, the object identifier matches, and the handling/viewing process is appropriate. For photographic records, keep the original files and record their filenames or identifiers rather than relying on a brief narrative alone. If images differ in angle, scale, illumination or camera settings, describe that limitation.
When an observation may require attention, use the institution's escalation policy and record the hand-off. Avoid writing “damage caused by transport” unless that conclusion has been established by an authorized investigation; a neutral record could describe the observed location and how it differs from the baseline.