Week 1 Readings

5. Your first “mini catalogue entry”

The skill: a mini catalogue entry (150–220 words)

A catalogue entry is a professional format used in museums, collections, exhibitions, and portfolios.

This week you will produce a beginner version:

Template

• Object type (what it is):

• Materials/technique (what it seems to be):

• Description (shape, surface, decoration):

• Making clues (evidence):

• Interpretation (careful, not absolute):

• One question you want to research next:

Example (short)
Object type: lidded jar
Materials/technique: glazed ceramic with painted decoration
Description: A rounded body with a fitted lid; glossy surface; blue motifs arranged in bands.
Making clues: A defined foot ring suggests it was supported during firing; brushwork indicates hand-painted decoration.
Interpretation: The layout suggests a planned decorative system rather than random painting.
Research question: What motifs or borders are typical for similar jars in museum collections?