Object ID: a model of global collaboration

Developed through a collaboration of efforts by museums, law enforcement and customs agencies, members of the art trade, art collectors, and insurance organizations, Object ID responded to the need for more uniform documentation procedures. Now in use for 7 years, the capabilities of Object ID are beginning to be seen. This article will trace the development of Object ID from an idea to reality and the context in which this standard arose. Discussing briefly other international efforts to protect cultural property and the work of the J. Paul Getty Trust, this article will detail who is using Object ID and how. It will also note the problems that lie in Object ID's worldwide implementation. This article will conclude that despite its technical obstacles, through the collaboration involved in its creation and the effectiveness of its direct approach, Object ID can provide useful guidance for future efforts.