10.3 Acquisition strategies and ethical considerations

Museums acquire objects through various means, from donations to purchases. These methods shape collections but raise ethical concerns. Provenance research, cultural sensitivity, and legal frameworks guide responsible acquisitions.

Deaccessioning, the removal of objects from collections, is a complex process. It involves careful decision-making, adherence to ethical standards, and consideration of public trust. Museums must navigate these challenges to maintain their integrity.

Acquisition Methods and Ethical Considerations

Methods of museum object acquisition

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• Donations from individuals, corporations, planned giving programs enhance collections without financial burden
• Purchases through auction houses, private dealers, directly from artists expand holdings strategically
• Bequests via wills, estate planning provide long-term collection growth
• Field collections during archaeological digs, scientific expeditions yield new discoveries
• Exchanges between museums facilitate inter-institutional loans, permanent transfers
• Government transfers of seized items, surplus materials augment public collections

Ethics in museum acquisition policies

• Provenance research traces ownership history, authenticates objects, ensures due diligence
• Cultural sensitivity addresses indigenous artifacts, sacred objects, human remains respectfully
• Conflict of interest policies govern trustee donations, staff collecting practices
• Illicit trade prevention targets looted artifacts (Elgin Marbles), forgeries
• Repatriation issues involve claims from source communities (Native American tribes), international disputes
• Environmental impact considerations restrict acquisitions of endangered species products (ivory), geological specimens

Legal frameworks for museum acquisitions

• UNESCO Convention (1970) prohibits illicit cultural property transfers, promotes international cooperation
• National laws like Antiquities Acts, export restrictions protect heritage
• ICOM Code of Ethics provides acquisition guidelines, professional standards
• NAGPRA mandates repatriation of Native American cultural items in US
• Cultural property agreements establish bilateral understandings between countries
• Immunity from seizure laws protect loaned objects in international exhibitions (British Museum loans)

Deaccessioning in museum collections

• Formal removal of objects from permanent collections for various reasons
• Motivations include redundancy, poor condition, lack of mission relevance
• Ethical debates center on public trust, donor intent, collection integrity
• Process requires board approval, thorough documentation, transparent decision-making
• Disposal methods: transfer to other institutions, public auction, private sale
• Proceeds often restricted, typically reinvested in collections
• Controversies arise from media scrutiny, stakeholder reactions (Detroit Institute of Arts sale proposal)
• Best practices involve clear policies, long-term planning, adherence to professional guidelines (AAM standards)