In a message dated 7/3/2006 11:00:54 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
[log in to unmask] writes:
Because the “collector” did not keep a good system of paperwork for the 
materials, our
attorneys took the position that it was up to a claimant to prove the item 
was a loan or how
it had come into the University’s possession.   That sounds harsh ethically, 
but clearly the
only way to prevent or halt multiple false claims.

I've run into this kind of thing--I've found stuff in collections of a small 
local history museum that had frequent periods without a professional.  The 
officers would "accept" things and the documentation and lack of documentation 
varied widely--depending on which officer happened to be around or even if 
anyone happened to be around.  And yes, I encountered the situation where a 
specific item was claimed by two different individuals, neither having  any 
documentation.  

Yes, it really does happen, and you don't have to be talking about claims for 
internationally acclaimed art....


Holly

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