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Provenance: meaning, definitions and examples

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provenance

 

[ˈprɒvənəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art history

Provenance refers to the history of ownership of a particular object, especially regarding artworks and antiques. It is crucial for establishing the authenticity and legal ownership of items. Knowing the provenance helps determine the monetary value of art pieces, as well as their cultural significance. In cases of dispute, provenance can help clarify rightful ownership and can be used in the context of restitution efforts for stolen artifacts.

Synonyms

lineage, origin, source.

Examples of usage

  • The provenance of the painting was thoroughly researched.
  • Collectors value way more artworks with clear provenance.
  • The museum provided detailed provenance of the ancient sculptures.
Context #2 | Noun

cultural studies

Provenance also pertains to the origin or background of concepts, ideas, or cultural phenomena. By studying the provenance, researchers can track the development and influences on cultural artifacts. This understanding adds layers of meaning and context to various cultural expressions. It emphasizes the interconnections among different cultures over time.

Synonyms

ancestry, background, heritage.

Examples of usage

  • The provenance of the cultural tradition was examined in the study.
  • Understanding the provenance of folklore can enrich our appreciation of it.
  • The documentary highlighted the provenance of the region's culinary practices.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the French 'provenir', meaning 'to come from'.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'provenire', which also means 'to come forth' or 'to result'.
  • Originally used in the 14th century, it was primarily associated with the origins of artworks and artifacts.

Art History

  • In the art world, knowing an artwork's provenance helps verify its authenticity and value.
  • Famous pieces like the Mona Lisa have a detailed provenance that traces their history through ownership.
  • For collectors, provenance signifies an object's history, making it more desirable and often more expensive.

Food and Wine

  • The term is frequently used in the culinary world to ensure that ingredients are sourced ethically and sustainably.
  • In wine, provenance helps consumers understand the region, vineyard, and production methods behind the bottle, enhancing appreciation.
  • Some chefs emphasize provenance to tell a story about their dishes, connecting diners to the roots of what they eat.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, provenance can be crucial in proving ownership and establishing authenticity in disputes.
  • Documents, artifacts, and other valuable objects often require provenance to substantiate claims of ownership during legal proceedings.
  • Misrepresenting provenance can lead to serious legal consequences, emphasizing its role in ethical practices.

Preservation and Curation

  • Museums greatly value provenance for preserving artifacts, as it informs their significance and context.
  • Curators use provenance to create engaging stories around exhibits, connecting visitors with historical narratives.
  • There are dedicated databases that track the provenance of culturally significant objects to prevent looting and ensure rightful ownership.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,875, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.