Collections Development Policy2014-19Name of museum: York Museums Trust

Name of governing body: York Museums and Gallery Trust

Date on which this policy was approved by governing body: 9th September 2015

Policy review procedure:

The collections development policy will be published and reviewed from time to time, at least once every five years.

When appropriate, the policy will be reviewed by museum curators and members of York Museums Trust’s Senior Management Team. All changes or revisions will be subject to the approval of Trustees and the City of York Council.

Date at which this policy is due for review: 9th September 2020

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Arts Council England will be notified of any changes to the collections development policy, and the implications of any such changes for the future of collections.

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1 Relationship to other relevant policies/plans of the

organisation:1.1 The museum’s statement of purpose is:

Our Vision is for York Museums Trust to play a major part in positioning York as a world class cultural centre.

Our Mission is to cherish and enhance the collections, buildings and gardens entrusted to us, presenting and interpreting them as a stimulus for learning, a provocation to curiosity and a source of inspiration and enjoyment for all.

Strategic Objectives:

To protect and conserve the collections, gardens and buildings.

To promote access to the collections, gardens and buildings appropriate to the 21st Century.

To attract more visitors to our sites, thus contributing to the local and regional economy.

To create learning opportunities for all and develop innovative programmes springing from the collections, gardens and buildings.

To network and collaborate with partners and contribute to the development of the economic and cultural life of the city and the region.

To raise substantial funds to realise these aims.

1.2 The governing body will ensure that both acquisition and disposal are carried out openly and with transparency.

1.3 By definition, the museum has a long-term purpose and holds collections in trust for the benefit of the public in relation to its stated objectives. The governing body therefore accepts the principle that sound curatorial reasons must be established before consideration is given to any acquisition to the collection, or the disposal of any items in the museum’s collection.

1.4 Acquisitions outside the current stated policy will only be made in exceptional circumstances.

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1.5 The museum recognises its responsibility, when acquiring additions to its collections, to ensure that care of collections, documentation arrangements and use of collections will meet the requirements of the Museum Accreditation Standard. This includes using SPECTRUM primary procedures for collections management. It will take into account limitations on collecting imposed by such factors as staffing, storage and care of collection arrangements.

1.6 The museum will undertake due diligence and make every effort not to acquire, whether by purchase, gift, bequest or exchange, any object or specimen unless the governing body or responsible officer is satisfied that the museum can acquire a valid title to the item in question.

1.7 The museum will not undertake disposal motivated principally by financial reasons

2 History of the collections2.1 General

The collections managed by York Museums Trust (YMT) have their origins in the 17th century. Private and civic collections held within the city began to amass as intellectual curiosity and interest in archaeology, art, history and natural sciences increased across North Yorkshire. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries these collections came together within a number of York-based organisations. The collections of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society (YPS) and York Corporation were exhibited within three institutions, The Yorkshire Museum and the Yorkshire Museum Gardens (YM and YMG), York Art Gallery (YAG) and York Castle Museum (YCM).

The collections of all three institutions grew in size and stature under the ownership of City of York Council (CYC). The combined collections of CYC gained Designated status1 in 1997. York Museums Trust was founded in 2002 to manage the museum buildings, gardens and collections on behalf of City of York Council. YMT is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.

The museum sites each hold a unique place in British museum history:

1 The Designation Scheme identifies the pre-eminent collections of national and international importance held in England's non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance. These collections represent a vital part of England’s national cultural and artistic heritage.

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Yorkshire Museum o The third oldest purpose-built museum in UK. o Played an integral role in the establishment of some of

most important organisations within the museum sector, hosting the first meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science (1831) and the inaugural meeting of the Museums Association (1889).

York Castle Museumo Kirkgate is the original prototype for reconstructed

streetscapes as a means of contextual display of museum collections.

York Art Galleryo Used throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries for

a wide range of social and cultural functions and exhibitions from All in Wrestling to hosting the first ever recreated street display as a temporary exhibition.

o Internationally recognised as a pre-eminent centre for twentieth century British studio ceramics.

All the museums occupy listed buildings and are in part comprised of or are surrounded by scheduled ancient monuments. The Yorkshire Museum building (1830) was designed by William Wilkins who later designed the National Gallery while John Carr designed The Female Prison (1780), now part of York Castle Museum.

The three museum sites managed by YMT have been awarded Full Accreditation with the Arts Council of England’s Museum Accreditation Scheme, the national standard for museums in the United Kingdom.

YMT has continued to develop York’s collections. Important collectors such as W.A. Ismay, Henry Rothschild, and Eric Milner-White held York’s collections in high enough regard to either bequeath or placed on loan their nationally important collections. YMT manages and develops its collections by discipline rather than by site. The overall YMT collection is managed by Archaeology, Art, History, Numismatics and Natural Science teams.

For the detailed history of the museums and their collections see: Green, R., 1991, York City Art Gallery: An Illustrated Guide Pyrah, B.J., 1988, The History of the Yorkshire Museum and its

Geological Collections York Castle Museum Guidebooks (1970s – 1990s)

2.2 Yorkshire Museum

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The Yorkshire Museum opened to members of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society in 1830 to display its ever-increasing natural science collections. In 1847 the Yorkshire Museum Gardens were laid out and included a half-timbered building known as the Hospitium in which the Yorkshire Philosophical Society displayed its archaeology and ethnography collections.

Important local collectors, and generally members of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society, such as Backhouse, Cook, Monkman and Mitchelson, donated or sold their collections to the Yorkshire Philosophical Society. Although a private museum, the Yorkshire Museum became the repository for the city of York’s archaeology from the mid 19th century onwards. In 1960, the Yorkshire Philosophical Society gifted the Yorkshire Museum, Yorkshire Museum Gardens and their collections to York Corporation (now City of York Council). Museum staff along with members of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society and other local collectors continued to add to the Yorkshire Museum’s archaeology and natural science collections. The 1974 municipal boundary changes resulted in the Yorkshire Museum being transferred to North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) and gaining a County Museum status before being returned to City of York Council control in 1996. Between 1984 and 1987 the archaeology, ethnography and architectural collections were transferred from the Hospitium building into the main museum. In 2010 the museum underwent a major refurbishment, during which much of the original architecture was re-exposed and the visitor offer refreshed with a new layout and new Archaeology and Natural Science displays.

2.3 York Art Gallery

In 1878, the permanent Fine Art and Industrial Exhibition building opened to the public. This new building held on an annual basis very successful temporary exhibitions. In 1882, John Burton, a local collector, donated his important collection of over 100 paintings to the Fine Art and Industrial Exhibition Committee. In 1892, the building and its newly formed collection were sold to York Corporation and became known as the City Art Gallery. Important bequests from F.D. Lycett Green, Dr W.A. Evelyn and the Very Reverend Milner-White were added to the gallery’s collection which continues to grow. Over the years, individual galleries have been refurbished and upgraded as the need arose. Most recently in 2013-2015, York Art Gallery has undergone a major £8million redevelopment of the building, made possible by a £2million bequest from siblings Peter and Karen Madsen and investment from CYC and Arts Council England. The work has increased display space by 60% by reclaiming space used by the City Archives and opening up previously unused space on the first floor. It has incorporated a new, second entrance at the rear of the building,

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leading to a balcony and new landscaped gardens; an upgraded fine art store; improved access and visitor facilities.

2.4 York Castle Museum

York Castle Museum was opened in 1937 by York Corporation. The social history collections that formed its core were housed in York’s Female Prison, built in 1780 and was vacated as a prison in 1930. At the core of this museum were the collections of Dr John Lamplugh Kirk and, latterly, John Bowes Morrell. A second building, the adjacent Debtors’ Prison, was added to YCM in 1951. This was used to display the military collections of Edward Timperley, Dr John Lamplugh Kirk and local regiments alongside large vehicles, costume and textiles.

3 An overview of current collections by subject3.1 Archaeology 3.1.1 Make up

The core of YMT’s archaeology collection is comprised of material collected by local antiquarians and the Yorkshire Philosophical Society in the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection also incorporates private collections, individual chance finds – largely by metal detectorists - and excavation archives. Included amongst this excavated material are the archives of antiquarians and amateurs, however modern professional excavation archives form a substantial and ever-increasing element of the collection. YMT is the official repository for archives of excavations undertaken locally.

The collection comprises some 57,000 individual objects in addition to bulk excavated material from archaeological assemblages numbering approximately 900,000 pieces. This collection is one of the most comprehensive and important in the UK. Within the collection are objects that derive from internationally renowned archaeological sites, or are themselves significant on a world stage. Highlights of the collection include the Towton Torcs, the marble Head of Constantine, the Escrick Ring, the York Helmet, the Ormside Bowl, the Vale of York Viking Hoard (co-owned with the British Museum), the 12th century statues from St. Mary’s Abbey and the Middleham Jewel.

YMT also curates and manages seven listed buildings and three Scheduled Ancient Monuments as an adjunct to its collection.

3.1.2 Subjects or Themes

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The archaeology collection can be used to trace the history of the City of York, its hinterland and the wider surrounding region, from its beginnings to present day. The archaeology of the Prehistoric, Roman, Anglian, Anglo Scandinavian and medieval periods is well represented. Individual objects and wider collections highlight York’s role as a political, religious and commercial centre of great importance throughout each of these periods. In many cases material derives from sites of international renown and significance (such as the Mesolithic objects from Star Carr and the Viking finds from Coppergate), or relates to iconic individuals or events (such as Roman Emperor Constantine the Great and King Richard III). Many objects (such as the Escrick Ring, Bedale Hoard and Towton Torc) represent unique discoveries.

Elements of the collection are representative of the development of the discipline of archaeology. The collecting activities of important York individuals are equally well represented.

3.1.3 Time PeriodThe archaeology collection covers a chronological period from the later Palaeolithic period (circa 100,000 BP) to the present day.

3.1.4 Geography

The archaeology collection represents a geographical area of North and East Yorkshire; with material from the City of York at its core. There are comparatively few objects from elsewhere in the UK and Europe.

3.2 Biology

3.2.1 Make upThe collection totals over 500,000 specimens and encompasses: entomology (420,000), a herbarium (46,000), molluscs (21,000), birds (14,000), mammals (1,050) and fish, reptiles and amphibians (150). These areas are largely made up of a series of smaller collections assembled by amateur and professional naturalists over the last 200 years, and can tell very personal stories alongside the scientific. The collection includes one of the finest beetle collections in the country, the original herbarium of the YPS, and is strong in butterflies and moths. There is significant work by regional taxidermists, including a considerable number by the Victorian taxidermist Edward Allen. In recent years, the Yorkshire-specific collections have been expanded greatly by a series of donations by collectors including Clifford Smith, Archie Heron and W.G. Bramley, of spiders, moths and fungi, respectively.

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Rare and globally important specimens include two Great Auk mounts (of only around70 remaining worldwide), an almost complete moa skeleton, four passenger pigeons and some of the first dodo bones to be brought back to Britain in the modern era.

3.2.2 Subjects or themesBiology collections made up part of the founding collections of the YPS, and as such reflect the collecting interests of its members to the mid-20th century, in mainly UK-based but occasionally international specimens. Since these times, the collection has been developed to mainly reflect the biodiversity of Yorkshire and its surrounds.

3.2.3 Time periodThe collections are contemporaneous, from the founding of the YPS in 1821 through to the present day, with only very rare exceptions.

3.2.4 GeographyThe biology collection is made up primarily of specimens collected in Yorkshire and the UK, with some significant specimens from international sources. It represents a nationally important historical and scientific dataset and a resource through which to explore the natural world.

3.3 Costume and Textiles

3.3.1 Make upThe collection initially reflected Dr. Kirk’s interests – fans, shoe-buckles, purses, scent-bottles, parasols, etc. It was then added to substantially through the work of the deputy curator, Violet Wlock. Collecting lapsed in the 1960s but was resumed, on a systematic basis, in the mid-1970s. Since then the collection has been extensively expanded with, for example, active collecting of twentieth-century material, which has resulted in a comprehensive collection of 1950s to 1980s costume. The collection of costume and textiles housed at the YCM is internationally known and nationally important. Consisting of some 30,000 items, and one of the largest provincial collections in the country.

3.3.2 Subjects or themes The collection represents Western European fashion from c.1500 to the present, with particular strengths in the nineteenth century (especially Victorian period) and early-twentieth century. The collection does not have significant holding of haute couture garments: rather it reflects mainstream fashion as exemplified in the clothes worn by ordinary men, women, and children throughout the last 300 years. There are outstanding and important collections of the following: fans (over 600 items), shawls (over 300), underwear (over 500), parasols (over 300), bags and purses (over

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400), women’s dresses (over 1,000), and children’s clothes (over 700).

There are also important supporting, collections of related printed material – magazines, journals, fashion-plates and photographs, from 1800 to the present (c.1,500 items).

The large and comprehensive textile collection features English domestic textiles and domestic textile crafts from the early-eighteenth century to the present. The quilt and needlework-tool collections are internationally known (120 and over 1,000 items respectively), while the sampler collection is particularly fine.

3.3.3 Time period1500 to present day.

3.3.4 Geography Yorkshire focus but also a wider geographical remit depending on

significance.

3.4 Decorative Arts

3.4.1 Make upThe Decorative Art collection is a material based collection, the majority of which consist of ceramics, glass and metals, with small amounts of organic material such as textiles. Large parts of the collections have come from private collectors. Pre 20th century collections of English, Continental and oriental ceramics were acquired from collectors including Morrell, Hurst, Boynton and Long. Significant collections of 20th century British studio ceramics were acquired from the collectors Milner-White, Ismay and Rothschild. We also have the Anthony Shaw Collection on loan for 15 years.

3.4.2 Subjects or themes Our ceramics collections include the collections of British studio ceramics created by the Very Reverend Milner-White, W.A. Ismay and Henry Rothschild. We also have on loan, the Anthony Shaw Collection. These are supplemented by donations to and acquisitions by YMT. These collections combined offer a survey of the British studio ceramic movement from the early 20th century to the present day and feature work by more than 500 artists. The Milner-White and Ismay collections are supported by archival material. The loaned Anthony Shaw Collection consists primarily of late 20th century studio ceramics, but also includes other examples of craft and art.

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We also have large holdings of pre 20th century ceramics, both handmade and factory produced. These include large holdings of material from Yorkshire based potteries (including Leedsware, Rockingham); Dutch and English Delftware; English and Continental factory ceramics; oriental ceramics; Southern Italian ceramics; late 19th century art pottery; English country pottery; and 20th century factory wares.

The glass collection comprises of stained glass by the York artists William Peckitt, Henry Gyles and John Ward Knowles and other unattributed works. There is also a collection of early English wine bottles, and English and Continental drinking glasses. The WA Ismay collection contains a small capsule collection of British studio glass from the late 1960s/early 1970s.

The metal collection contains examples of silver produced in York and Yorkshire. There is also a collection of pewter items.

3.4.3 Time periodThe collections cover a broad time period from prehistory through

to present day.

3.4.4 Geography The collection is mostly of British provenance though some European, Asian, African and American items have been acquired through gifts from collectors and further items have been acquired in support of core themes in the collection.

3.5 Fine Art

3.5.1 Make upThe fine art collection is made up from several important individual collections: The John Burton Collection of paintings; Dr W.A. Evelyn’s Collection of topographic works of art on paper; The F.D. Lycett Green Collection of Old Master paintings; a group of early 20th century British Impressionist paintings; and a large number of additional acquisitions.

The collection includes some 1,000 oil paintings, 14,000 works on paper and 100 sculptures. A collection of late 19th century and early 20th century British designs for published illustrations was presented by James Tillotson Hyde in 1962 and there is a small collection of approximately 150 Japanese prints. There is a small group of mainly British sculptures, many of which have been acquired through the Contemporary Art Society.

3.5.2 Subjects or themes

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The fine art collection aims to provide a survey of post-medieval painting in Western Europe. A comprehensive works on paper collection with appropriate local emphasis is based around a collection of York views purchased from Dr W.A. Evelyn. Sculpture is collected to complement the 2 dimensional collections.

Particular strengths in the collection lie in (but are not limited to) the following groups: 14th-15th century Italian gold ground panels, 17th century Dutch Golden Age paintings, 18th century British portraiture and Victorian genre painting.

York Art Gallery houses the largest number of sketches, studies and paintings by York-born artist William Etty (1787-1849). There is good representation of British painting from the first half of the 20th

century and some examples of abstract painting from the 1970s and 1980s.

Contemporary collecting is focused around the theme of flesh and the human body,

3.5.3 Time periodThe Fine Art collection covers work from the 14th century to the

present day.

3.5.4 Geography The collection primarily focuses on Western art and so the vast majority of works are British, European (particularly Dutch, Flemish, Italian, French, Spanish, German) with some examples from further a field (e.g. North America),

The nucleus of the works on paper collection is a large group of prints, drawings and watercolours depicting the topography of York and surrounding area.

Also in the works on paper collection is a good group (c.150) of 18th and 19th century Japanese prints, with some Chinese examples.

3.6 Geology

3.6.1 Make upThe collection numbers around 120,000, including palaeontology, mineralogy and petrology.

The palaeontology collection includes 100,000 fossils and 7,000 sub-fossils, mostly from the UK. Particular strengths include Carboniferous material from the north of England (fish, crinoids, and plants), Lower Jurassic vertebrates and invertebrates (including marine reptiles and dinosaur footprints from the Yorkshire coast),

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Middle Jurassic plants, and Quaternary cave fauna (including that of Kirkdale Cave). The collection includes nearly 300 type specimens and 1,000 status specimens. William Reed, a YPS member, contributed some 40,000 fossils to the collection during and after his lifetime, and a fund (now realised) for their care and development.

Mineral and petrology collections, containing 5,500 and 7,500 specimens respectively are made up of UK and worldwide material. They include reference collections for Yorkshire, The Greenbank Collection of display-quality mineral specimens from the North of England and the petrology collection of the Yorkshire academic Bernard Hobson (specimens and thin sections), meticulously assembled during the course of his worldwide travels.

A small collection of meteorites (including the Middlesbrough Meteorite), a working astronomical observatory within the YMG, and a small map collection (including an original William Smith map of England and Wales from 1815), add to the collection’s significance. The Tempest Anderson collection is detailed in the Photographs section.

3.6.2 Subjects or themes The geology collection is of real significance to the history of science – linked with leading scientists William Smith, John Phillips, Richard Owen, Gideon Mantell, William Buckland and discoveries of the 19th and 20th centuries. The material found within the Kirkdale Cave hyaena den in 1820-21 fuelled huge scientific debate, and was the impetus for the founding of the Yorkshire Philosophical Society. As a founding collection, its development followed the interests, networks and evolution of the YPS, with high quality collections from around the country, but with the wealth of Yorkshire geology at its core.

3.6.3 Time periodThe whole of Earth history is covered in the collection, beginning with the Middlesbrough Meteorite at 4.6 billion years old, following right through to the Pleistocene Ice Ages, at only a few hundred thousand years old, with cave and glacial material. The regional Jurassic and Carboniferous geology is well represented.

3.6.4 Geography The geology collection is of enormous scientific value. It represents material of quality and breadth from classic localities across the UK and worldwide, many of which are no longer accessible. The majority is from the north of England however.

3.7 Yorkshire Philosophical Society Library

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3.7.1 Make upThe Yorkshire Museum Historic Book Collection was established by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society in 1822 alongside its specimen and artefact collections, together forming a rich resource for the scientific study of the natural world and human history. Numbering around 10,000 volumes, it is formed of the significant academic library put together for the use of YPS members. A large proportion was gifted or exchanged by the authors, often YPS members themselves, meaning the books have the potential to trace the circle of influence of this well-respected Society, over and above their printed content. As well as printed books and pamphlets, there are a number of unique manuscripts and other miscellanea which tell the story of the YPS, its library and its members. William Reed bequeathed a significant number of books as well as a fund (now realised) to purchase more books and journals on palaeontology. Tempest Anderson’s collection of volcanology books is also present, including several copies of his seminal ‘Volcanic Studies’, and his large scrapbooks, filled with cuttings on his worldwide travels.

3.7.2 Subjects or themes The collection mirrors the development of the YPS, as it was amassed to support its interests and burgeoning natural science and antiquity collections. There are early volumes tracing the birth of new scientific fields such as astronomy and physics, as well as the more contemporaneous geology. There is also much material on early excavations within York including material related to the exploration of St Mary’s Abbey. There are numerous more general volumes on the history and archaeology of Yorkshire and the North.

3.7.3 Time periodThe earliest complete book in the collection is from 1561, but the majority of books are contemporaneous with the foundation and formative years of Yorkshire Philosophical Society’s ideas and development, through the early 1800s to the year 1900.

3.7.4 Geography The YPS developed a reference library of new discoveries which related to the collections in their care. As much debate was new and ongoing, this covered works from all over the world, but chiefly the UK and Europe. There is a strong Yorkshire element also, particularly on early archaeological excavation, municipal and religious records.

3.8 Military History

3. 8.1 Make upInitially Dr. Kirk, collected civilian weapons and military material related to the region. Edward Timperley donated his significant

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collection of arms and armour to the Museum in 1941. Between 1952 and 1978 the museum housed the Yorkshire Military Museum. Although comprising in the main of loans from regimental museums, it attracted many donations of non-regimental military items of regional importance. Even though most of the Yorkshire regiments now have their own museums, strong links are maintained with them.

The York collection, comprising a total of almost 9,000 items, is of national importance, its strength deriving from emphasis on the ordinary; many items are significant or rare through their utilitarian nature.

3. 8.2 Subjects or themes The collection covers uniforms and militaria (c.1,200 items), firearms (c.1,050 items), edged weapons and poll arms (c.2,000 items), documents and illustrations (c.2,000 items), equipment (c.2,000 items). In most of these areas York has the largest collection amongst non-specialist museums within the UK.

Military units covered in depth by significant collections are the Local Militia of the Napoleonic Wars, Rifle, Artillery and Engineer Volunteers, the Territorial Army and the Yorkshire Yeomanry. The firearms collection is comprehensive, having examples of most types of portable firearms from c.1550 to the present. This includes service and civilian weapons including sporting weapons and firearm accessories. The edged weapons and poll arms collection is similarly comprehensive and of international importance. There are few British used types not represented. The armour collection represents functional European armour from c.1550 to the present. It is especially strong in seventeenth-century items.

3. 8.3 Time periodIn general the collection represents regional associations with all aspects of English military history from c.1500 to the present.

3. 8.4 Geography Mainly Yorkshire focus but also with a wider remit

3.9 Numismatics

3.9.1 Make upYMT’s Numismatics Collection numbers around 40,000 objects. It is one of the largest in the country and is the most significant collection in Northern England. It is formed of four collection subsets: coins, tokens, banknotes and medals.

The collection was formed in the 19th century through bequests of local collectors – in particular Cook, Rook and Wakefield. In the 20th

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century the collection grew through the addition of large collections of trade tokens, early medieval coins and military medals. More recently archaeology has produced the additions to the collection – as individual coins, excavated assemblages or coin hoards – including the Breckenbrough hoard, Plompton assemblage and the coins from Catterick excavations.

The coin collection numbers approximately 33,000 objects and is prominently formed of material which is well provenanced. It comprises a very significant holding of Roman coinage (15,000) most of which comes from excavations in York or from hoards around the county. The Early Medieval coinage (6,200) includes the reference collection of stycas and a strong holding of material struck in York. This is matched in the Medieval (2,500) and Tudor (1,000) periods where coinage of the York mint is well represented. In addition, the coinage of the Civil War (3,000) period is strongly represented with several sizable hoards forming the bulk of the material. There is also modern (post-1700) material (7,500) from England and a small amount from around the globe.

The collection of 17th, 18th and 19th century tokens (5,000) is exceptional in being close to comprehensive for Yorkshire and very widely representative of material across the rest of the country. It forms a coherent collection and dates from the early years of the Numismatics collection.

The medal collection is comprised of military, commemorative and fine art medals. The military medals (850) are a small but very important collection which includes some early nineteenth-century medals in addition to three Victoria Crosses. The commemorative and fine art (650) medals reflect the social history and artistic output of York.

The banknote collection (300) is comprised of a good collection of nineteenth century provincial banknotes, with bias towards issues of Yorkshire/Northern English banks

3.9.2 Subjects or themes The numismatic collection is reflective of the history of the region from Iron Age to the present day. The collection represents the political, economic, artistic, military and social history of Yorkshire in the Prehistoric, Roman, Medieval and Modern periods.

The collection also reflects modern patterns of collecting with named collections, notably that of Robert Cook, representing important elements within the antiquarian collection.

3.9.3 Time periodThe Numismatics collection covers the chronological span from the Iron Age (200 BC) to the present day.

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3.9.4 GeographyThe geographic focus of the collection is upon York and Yorkshire. Where provenance is known the overwhelming majority of material has been found or collected within the historic boundaries of Yorkshire.

3.10 Photography

3.10.1Make upPhotography collections are part of several wider collections areas. The Geology collection includes 5000 glass plate slides taken by Tempest Anderson, a York ophthalmist, scientist and photographer, sheriff of York and president of the YPS. In addition, there are around 5,000 unsorted photographs and glass plate slides of astronomy, wildlife, portraiture and other scientific miscellany. These have been built up throughout the history of the YPS, and potentially hold previously unknown information about its members and activities.

The collection also contains material relating to the history and topography of York.

3.10.2Subjects or themes Anderson was a volcanologist, and this made up the bulk of his subject matter. However, there are a significant number of slides recording social and cultural events, in particular the aftermath of volcanic eruptions. The unsorted photographs/slides cover a range of scientific subjects.

Other slides include the history and topography of York.

3.10.3Time periodAnderson (1846-1913) was active in the late 1800s-early 1900s, and in many cases was the first person to record and photograph details of eruptions and the people who were affected by them. The unsorted photographs/slides cover the entire history of the YPS/YMT.

Other photographs from late 1800s

3.10.4Geography Anderson’s photographs cover volcanic eruptions and their effects all over the world.

The unsorted photographs/slides are mainly taken locally in Yorkshire.

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3.11 Social History

The YCM was founded upon the collections of Dr John L. Kirk of Pickering. He accumulated objects reflecting everyday life in Yorkshire and beyond, building up important collections of all kinds of social history material. These he subsequently displayed in a ground-breaking way in the new Castle Museum, opened on 23 April 1938. Additionally, a substantial amount of material was donated throughout his life by Alderman John Bowes Morrell, who was instrumental in helping establish the YCM, as well as being the founder of York University, the Borthwick Institute of Historical Research and York Civic Trust. Other important collections include the A.E. Whitehead collection of knitting sheaths, outstanding in its size and scope, the Hardy collection of police badges, and a large collection of material from Rowntree’s donated by Nestlè UK in 1994.

3.11.1Make up

SHIC 1. Community LifeLocal history and community life Impressive areas of strength are local weights and measures dating from 1601 onwards, a very large collection of truncheons and fire marks and a good collection of friendly society staffs. There are also items relating to education, religion and folklore, and objects and archives reflecting the YCM buildings’ original use as a prison. Date range: 1600-present; over 2,000 items.

Greetings cards, postcards and other ephemera Generally good, the ephemera include a large collection of Valentine cards (amongst them the earliest known printed and dated), Christmas cards and other greetings cards, which is particularly fine for the period 1860-1950. There is also a very comprehensive collection of postcards and In Memorium cards, broadsheets, political posters and cards, and Christmas decorations. Date range: 1700-present; c.3, 000 items.

SHIC 2. Domestic and Family LifeDomestic life The service owns one of the finest collections of domestic equipment in the country, ranging from the seventeenth century to the present, with a few earlier items. Comprehensive in scope, it includes a wide range of cooking, eating, washing and cleaning equipment as well as items for preserving and storing food, a good collection lighting and heating equipment of all kinds, and a large collection electrical and gas appliances. There are also

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collections relating to child rearing. Date range: 1650-present; over 3,000 items.

Music The collection of instruments is fine and varied. Areas of strength include woodwind, keyboard, brass and stringed instruments. Also important are eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth-century ballad sheets and song sheets of popular music. There is a large collection of mechanical devices for producing music: these include musical boxes, polyphones, phonographs and their cylinders, gramophones, record players and early twentieth-century records, mostly 78s, of popular and classical music. Date range: 1650-1970; c.2, 000 items.

Paintings, prints and photographs The collection includes works depicting York and the region, ranging in date from the eighteenth to the twentieth century, a large group of popular subjects on paper, canvas and glass, and a substantial photographic and glass negative archive. Date range: 1700-1960; over 5,000 items.

SHIC 3. Personal LifeThe collection reflects many aspects of personal life, including leisure activities and items relating to childhood, personal cleanliness and adornment. The collection of toys and games is particularly strong with a good range of tin toys, puzzles (e.g. Spilsbury dissected map), doll’s houses (e.g. the Heslington Baby House of c.1715) and doll’s house furnishings, and children’s books. The doll collection is important, with notable strengths in the nineteenth and later-twentieth centuries. The collection includes outstanding eighteenth-century dressed dolls in excellent condition. There are also good collections of sports equipment, writing accessories, smoking items, and a large number of lantern slides, lanterns, cameras, radios, televisions, etc. Date range: 1650-present; c.6,000 items.

SHIC 4. Working LifeCraft tools and local industries One of the finest provincial collections of pre-industrial craft tools and nationally important collection of material relating to the local confectionary industry such as Rowntree’s, Terry’s and Cravens. Date range: 1750-present; over 20,000 items.

Agriculture There is a good and comprehensive collection including hand-tools, hand-powered machines and farm-carts. There are items relating to stock-keeping and raising, including a large and well-known collection of horse brasses and a very comprehensive collection of dairy equipment. The collection is

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mainly late-nineteenth century and early-twentieth century in date. Date range: 1700-present; over 1,000 items.

Retail material The permanent displays include much material of this kind mainly dating from c.1800 to 1920 (i.e. the contents and fittings of the reconstructed street). There is also a good collection of trade cards from c.1759 to 1900 which is known nationally. Other retail items, notably of confectionary, are in the reserve collection. Date range: 1750-present; over 4,000 items.

Scientific and medical material Scientific instruments include telescopes and other instruments made by Thomas Cooke of York (a telescope manufactured by Cooke is still in operation in the Observatory in the Museum Gardens). The Museum has good collection of weights and measures and optical equipment. The medical collection is large and comprehensive and includes a collection from a herbalist’s shop, surgical and gynaecological instruments, medicine chests and apothecary jars. Date range: 1600-1950: over 1,500 items.

Clocks and watches This significant collection is strong in most kinds of clocks and watches, with some very important pieces (e.g. a Tompion and Graham long-case clock). It reflects the importance of York as a centre for clock production (e.g. clocks made by Henry Hindley). Date Range: 1614-1980; over 500 items.

Vehicles The collection comprises a good range of bicycles and tricycles, horse drawn vehicles (e.g. Hansom cab and two hearses), fire engines, three motor cars, and motor cycles. Date range: 1750-present; c.200 items.

Metal work The collection contains important items of silver (notably by Cattle and Barber of York), pewter, copper and other metals, including tableware, flatware and ornamental work. Date range: 1650-1960; c.500 items.

Buildings and furniture The collections contain pieces of furniture from the seventeenth to the twentieth century, some specific to the region. There is a very good collection of children’s furniture. There are also good examples of street furniture and architectural pieces including shop front and a working water mill. Date range: 1650-1960; over 700 items.

Glass The collection is extensive and representative of British glass of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, with some examples from the twentieth century. York-made glass from Fedfearn’s factory constitutes a significant part. There are comprehensive collections of nineteenth-century domestic lighting, twentieth-century milk bottles, nineteenth-century rolling pins, witch balls, and English domestic glassware including tableware of the

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eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Date range: 1750-1970; over 500 items.

3.11.2Subjects or themes Everyday life in Yorkshire

3.11.3Time periodC 1500 to the present day.

3.11.4Geography York and Yorkshire focus but older collections have come from

further a field.

4 Themes and priorities for future collectingYork Museum Trust’s collection will develop in line with its strategic principles and individual collections development priorities as outlined below.

4.1 Strategic Principles for Acquisition

York Museums Trust will continue to develop a collection of national importance and regional significance in line with the principles of Designation. Acquisitions should be outstanding in terms of evidential, informational, aesthetic, scientific, historical, cultural, literary or economic importance. York Museum Trust’s collections will demonstrate richness and variety, and rarity of individual items or groups. Acquisitions will help develop the depth, breadth and richness of collections in their coverage of themes, time periods, or geographic areas.

York Museums Trust’s collections will demonstrate outstanding breadth and variety and provide a comprehensive overview of the Yorkshire region within a national and international context. The holdings will be central to the study, understanding and appreciation of individual collections, time periods and the region.

YMT will collect with a preference for material from the Yorkshire and Humber region. Items may be collected from outside this area if they enhance the understanding and interpretation of YMT's designated collections and support future strategic development See individual collection areas for more detail.

The primary principle for acquisition is whether an object or objects fulfils specific collection development themes and priorities

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The secondary principle for collecting is the instrumental value of an object:o Opportunity to effect learning through exhibitionso Opportunity to effect learning through formal and informal

education programmes

There is a underlying principle that collection items should be made as accessible as possible to the general public. On occasion, however, non-collection items will be purchased to use in exhibitions and learning programmes. Curators will review whether ‘collection like’ material should be accessioned. Such acquisitions will be reviewed on a regular basis. YMT will maintain a list of non-collection assets used in exhibitions and learning programmes. These assets can be used to destruction and are considered disposable.

4.2 Conditions for AcquisitionOnly objects that meet the following criteria will be considered for collection by York Museums Trust:

Fulfils specific collection development themes, priorities and criteria for individual collections

Accurate provenance with a preference for contextual information

Legal title held by the donor or vendor with transfer to City of York Council at point of sale or transfero Transfer of copyright to City of York Council at point of sale is a

strong preference but not a conditiono City of York Council and York Museums Trust must be provided

with a royalty free Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Public License at point of sale or transfer

Compliance with all relevant legislation Capacity and resources for long-term preservation, care, storage

and documentation

4.3 Future Collecting Themes and Priorities

4.3.1 Archaeology

4.3.1.1 Subjects or themes We will collect material that will allow us to create a dynamic assemblage which reflects the archaeology of York and Yorkshire; highlighting the political, religious, economic and artistic history of the region.

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We will collect material that ensures the archaeology collection is maintained and developed as one of the most comprehensive and important in the UK; representing a pre-eminent resource for research, learning and inspiration for a range of communities.

We will look to develop the collection specifically in the following areas:- Objects from the Anglian period- Objects from the Prehistoric period- Specific collections amassed by individual local collectors with

strong relevance to the development of the discipline of archaeology in the region

- Objects that reflect the history and development of the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, St. Mary’s Abbey, York’s medieval castle and St. Mary’s Church Castlegate

- Metal detected objects of the Prehistoric, Roman, Anglian, Anglo-Scandinavian and Medieval periods

- Peculiar, particular and significant objects that are outstanding on a national/international level

4.3.1.2 Time periodWe will collect material that covers a chronological period from the later Palaeolithic period (circa 100,000 BP) to the present day.

4.3.1.3 Geography We will collect objects from the City of York and the geographical area of North and East Yorkshire. We will also collect material from the boundaries of the kingdoms that York was once a part, where these extend beyond modern administrative boundaries. We will acquire objects or collections from outside this area if and when a connection to Yorkshire – production, use or collector - can be sustained.

4.3.1.4 Limitations to collectingWhere material has been excavated by members of the public since 1997, we would expect that it had been offered to the Portable Antiquities Scheme for recording in advance of donation to YMT. Good provenance information (minimum of 6 figure grid reference) must also be provided.

4.3.2 Biology

4.3.2.1 Subjects or themes We will aim to create a scientific resource that reflects the biological diversity of the Yorkshire region, with particular reference to disappearing and changing habitats and wildlife. We will continue to develop a regional reference tool for a wide range of communities, which will contribute to a multi-level understanding of ecology and biodiversity, and also how the natural world is meshed with our own. We will seek to acquire specimens which reflect the historic and contemporary biodiversity of Yorkshire and its wider

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context. We will also seek to celebrate important figures and groups in biology from the region, and occasionally this may mean acquiring supporting material such as field notebooks, correspondence or biographical material.

4.3.2.2 Time periodWe will collect biological material from all periods, subject to the conditions listed.

4.3.2.3 Geography We will primarily collect from Watsonian vice-counties 61-65 inclusive. Outside this area, a strong link to our existing Designated collections, or historical figures strongly relevant to the Yorkshire Museum, must be demonstrated.

4.3.2.4 Limitations to collectingWe will only collect material in good condition, with good provenance and which satisfies all relevant legal requirements (with material transfer agreements where appropriate), and it must not present a hazard over and above those inherent in our existing collections.

We will only collect supporting material, such as field notebooks, after careful consideration and rationalisation if necessary, with strong preference for material which significantly supports existing or potential collections.

4.3.3 Costume and Textiles 4.3.3.1 Subjects or themes

We will prioritise our collecting in the following areas: Men’s costume from all periods Costume since 1970 including contemporary collecting Children’s costume Costume which reflects everyday life, including local industries,

from all periods Textiles that reflect trends in hobbies and crafts such as

patchwork and quilting, needlework, knitting and crochet

4.3.3.2 Time periodC 1500 to the present day.

4.3.3.3 Geography Priority will be given to items from York, secondly North Yorkshire and thirdly the region. Occasionally items from out side this area will be collected depending on the significance in relation to existing collections.

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4.3.3.4 Limitations to collectingPriority will be given to objects that are accompanied by individual, group or cultural stories that add local or regional significance to objects.

4.3.4 Decorative Arts

4.3.4.1 Subjects or themes We will continue to build the collection to reflect its designated status with the specific aim of creating a pre-eminent resource for the study of British Studio Ceramics in UK.

We aim to acquire- works by artists represented in the British studio ceramics

collection which reflect changes in style and direction works by significant artists not yet represented in the collection works that are representative of new developments in the field works connected to our named collectors supporting archival material demonstrating strong connection to

either named collectors, artists or objects in our collection

We will collect significant factory produced ceramic works which relate to and develops our existing collections.

We will collect glass, stained glass, metal, textiles and other examples of decorative art which will significantly enhance our existing collections.

4.3.4.2 Time periodWe will collect works that were produced from post-medieval period up to the present day.

4.3.4.3 Geography We will collect works of significance by important local, national and international artists.

4.3.4.4 Limitations to collectingWe will not acquire items which duplicate works already in our collections.

We will only accept archival material with a strong connection to our collections.

4.3.5 Fine Art

4.3.5.1 Subjects or themes

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Our objectives for the collection are to create a resource from which a rich and varied series of temporary exhibitions can be created that will raise the profile of York Art Gallery and the Fine Art collection. In doing this we aim to provide a survey of western fine art from the late medieval period to the modern day, also to establish the leading knowledge base within York for the drawn representation of the topography of York. We will strengthen the research potential and significance of the nationally Designated Art Collection through prioritised research, loans and acquisitions within the following areas: High quality paintings which fill in or diminish the existing gaps in

the collection, in particular (but not limited to) examples of French Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Pre-Raphaelitism, post-1960s painting and painting from 14th to 19th centuries.

Paintings and sketches by York born artist William Etty (1787-1849), particularly examples of Etty’s history paintings which are underrepresented in our collection

Watercolours, drawings and prints devoted to the topography of York and North Yorkshire where they provide new topographical information or are of aesthetic significance.

British watercolours, drawings and prints of aesthetic significance that complement the paintings collection and strengthen our existing holdings.

Paintings and new media works by contemporary artists which have links to our historic collections. We have particular focus on acquiring works relating to the theme of flesh and artists’ responses to the human body.

Sculpture which relates to and develops our existing Fine Art or Ceramics collections.

4.3.5.2 Time periodWe will collect works that were produced from the post-medieval period up to the present day.

4.3.5.3 GeographyWe are not limited by geographical constraints if the work is of art historical or aesthetic significance and aligns with other criteria outlined in this policy. The case for acquisition may be strengthened by a York / Yorkshire link, however this will not be the primary justification for acquisition.

4.3.5.4 Limitations to collectingWe will not collect York imagery where there is similar work already in the collection, unless the artist or the work itself is of particular aesthetic or art historical significance.

We will not collect works of art which are in an irreversibly bad state of repair, or works which are rapidly deteriorating or pose a hazard to the existing collections or building.

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4.3.6 Geology

4.3.6.1 Subjects or themes We will collect material which reflects the geological wealth of the Yorkshire region, and which enhances our Designated collection. This will continue to strengthen the research potential and significance of our considerable geological resource for a range of audiences. In particular, we will seek to collect representative specimens of archetypal Yorkshire geology of the Mesozoic and Cenozoic Yorkshire’s considerable industrial heritage marine reptiles plants, with an emphasis on the Jurassic period.As part of this, we will celebrate figures from York and the region, who contributed to the history and development of natural science and the Yorkshire Museum’s role within the subject. This may, on occasion, entail the acquisition of supporting material such as field notebooks.

4.3.6.2 Time periodWe will collect from across the whole geological record, limited only by caveats elsewhere in this policy.

4.3.6.3 Geography We will collect primarily from Yorkshire, although we will occasionally consider material outwith this where a strong link to Yorkshire, the history of the collections, and/or our Designated collection strengths can be demonstrated.

4.3.6.4 Limitations to collectingWe will only collect material in good condition, with good provenance and which satisfies all relevant legal requirements, and it must not present a hazard over and above those inherent in our existing collections.

We will only collect supporting material, such as field notebooks, after careful consideration and rationalisation if necessary, with strong preference for material which significantly supports existing or potential collections.

4.3.7 Yorkshire Philosophical Society Library

4.3.7.1 Subjects or themes We are not actively seeking to add to the Yorkshire Philosophical Society Library‘s book collection, as it represents a specific period of activity of the YPS. However, we may consider acquiring books or

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other material from this period, especially if it was once part of the YPS library. In exceptional circumstances, material directly relevant to the history of the natural science and archaeology collections, buildings and landscapes, and the development of the YPS and YM, may be considered.

4.3.7.2 Time periodWe would generally consider material from the time span of the current library: 16th century to 1900. Material outside this period may occasionally be considered if it shows strong links to the YM and YPS.

4.3.7.3 Geography Any material considered will by its nature be likely centred on York or Yorkshire, but, as in the current collection (for example the Tempest Anderson book collection), could easily be global in scope.

4.3.7.4 Limitations to collectingWe will not take books which are not relevant, as stipulated above. As a learned library of its time, subscriptions were held to many everyday, often national, publications, such as those of patent offices and planning departments, as the only method for patrons to access this information. These are not relevant to our collections today and would not be accepted.

4.3.8 Military History

4.3.8.1 Subjects or themes We aim to collect: Armour, Edged weapons Associated memorabilia Female military uniform Items which reflect recent modern day warfare, with particular

emphasis on how it links to York. This could link to modern day regiments base in the York area. This will not compete with existing regimental collections but provide context for role of York in military history.

4.3.8.2 Time periodFrom 1500.

4.3.8.3 Geography Yorkshire, and on occasion other areas if it complements existing collections.

4.3.8.4 Limitations to collectingItems that can not be made safe and would constitute a hazard.

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Collection of modern firearms should only be made after consultation with North Yorkshire Police and the Royal Armouries.

4.3.9 Numismatics

4.3.9.1 Subjects or themes We will collect material which reflects the archaeology and history of York and Yorkshire, with particular reference to the political, economic, social, artistic and military history of the region.

We will collect material that ensures we remain the pre-eminent resource for the interpretation of Numismatics in Yorkshire which will be utilised by a range of communities for research and learning.

More Specifically we will focus collecting upon the following areas: Coins, tokens and banknotes which were produced or used in

York or Yorkshire. Commemorative, fine art and military medals that were

produced, designed, awarded to or have links to individuals or events associated with the history of York and Yorkshire.

Metal-detected coin assemblages, particularly those of the Roman, Early Medieval and Medieval periods.

Peculiar, particular and significant objects and coin hoards that are outstanding on a national level.

specific collections which have been amassed by individual Yorkshire collectors.

4.3.9.2 Time periodWe will collect material from the Iron Age to the Contemporary.

4.3.9.3 Geography We will collect material which has a link to York or Yorkshire. This will vary according to the age of the material. For archaeologically recovered material we will collect material from within the Yorkshire or from the boundaries of the kingdoms that York was once a part, where these extend beyond modern administrative boundaries. For historical or contemporary material, we will collect where a connection – production, use or collecting - to Yorkshire can be sustained.

4.3.9.4 Limitations to collectingWhere material has been excavated since 1997, by members of the public, we would expect that it had been offered to the Portable Antiquities Scheme for recording in advance of donation to the Museum. Good provenance information (minimum of 6 figure grid reference) must also be provided.

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4.3.10Photography

4.3.10.1 Subjects or themes The Tempest Anderson collection is not being actively added to, being a bequest from a single person. However, if new material came to light, which was very closely related to Anderson’s life and photography, we would consider acquiring this. Examples could be a previously unknown collection of Anderson’s slides, or a collection from one of his companions or a scientist with whom Anderson was known to have worked, demonstrating the development of the study of volcanology.

The unsorted photographs/slides are a closed collection, as activities of YMT are

now recorded digitally in-house.

We will continue to collect: Photographs and digital images that reflect the history of York

Contemporary photographs and digital images which reflect York’s changing face as a city and also festivals and events to support collecting alongside the Social History Collection

4.3.10.2 Time periodWe would consider material from Tempest Anderson’s lifetime (1846-1913) and its close environs.

Images that reflect life in York and the environs will be collected from the start of the era of photography to the present day.

4.3.10.3 Geography We would consider material related to the international sites Anderson visited.

Other collections will focus mainly on York, but also wider Yorkshire where the context supports existing collections.

4.3.10.4 Limitations to collectingIt is not envisaged that new material will be added to the Tempest Anderson collection. Any material considered would need to have a demonstrable link to Anderson through his life’s work.

4.3.11Social History

4.3.11.1 Subjects or themes

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Priority will be given to objects that are accompanied by individual, group or cultural stories that add local or regional significance to objects.

We will continue to build upon existing collection areas including craft tools and local industries, Agriculture, Retail material, Scientific and medical material, Clocks and watches, Domestic life, Local history and community life, Personal life, Greetings cards, postcards and other ephemera, Vehicles, Music, Metal work, Paintings, prints and photographs, Buildings and furniture, and glass.

We will actively collect Items that reflect ‘hidden histories’ of minority groups in York

such as LGBT and black and minority ethnic communities Items that reflect modern day living in York including:o National and local Festivals and eventso York based industries such as racing, chocolate, tourism, and

financeo York based lifestyles including stag and hen parties etc

Where possible we will involve the local community in contemporary collecting.

4.3.3.3 Geography Priority will be given to items from York, secondly North Yorkshire and thirdly the region. Occasionally items from out side this area will be collected depending on the significance in relation to existing collections.

4.3.3.4 Limitations to collecting Large objects or collections that create storage issues will be

considered on a case by case basis

5 Themes and priorities for rationalisation and disposal5.1 The museum recognises that the principles on which

priorities for rationalisation and disposal are determined will be through a formal review process that identifies which collections are included and excluded from the review. The outcome of review and any subsequent rationalisation will not reduce the quality or significance of the collection and will result in a more useable, well managed collection.

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5.2 The procedures used will meet professional standards. The process will be documented, open and transparent. There will be clear communication with key stakeholders about the outcomes and the process.

5.3 Principles for Disposal

The strategic priorities for the rationalisation of York Museum Trust’s collections are to create capacity within all collections and associated resources to allow YMT to develop the collections to match the aspirations outlined in the organisation’s Vision and the Future Themes section of this policy.

York Museums Trust will consider disposal of objects against five criteria: Reduction of duplication with a preference for representative

samples Rationalisation of collections currently accessioned that no

longer relate to collections development themes and priorities Poor condition – beyond the point of reasonable preservation Reduction of hazards that pose a risk to human health or stability

of other collections Risk of damage or destruction due to storage, use or display

conditions

5.4 Individual Collection Development Rationalisation and Disposal Themes and Priorities

5.4.1 Archaeology

5.4.1.1 Subjects or themesWe will rationalise bulk excavated archaeological assemblages in the following areas; CBM, animal bone, ceramic, environmental samples.

5.4.1.2 Time periodRationalisation/Disposal will not be period specific. We will dispose of material from the Ancient Greek, Egyptian, Prehistoric, Roman, Anglian, Anglo-Scandinavian, Medieval and Post-Medieval periods if it meets disposal criteria.

5.4.1.3 Geography We will dispose of objects where a strong link to Yorkshire cannot be identified. This will include objects that do not derive from the City of York and the geographical area of North and East Yorkshire, or the boundaries of kingdoms that York was once part. We will also dispose of objects or collections from outside this area, where a connection to Yorkshire – production, use or collector – cannot be

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sustained. Disposal on grounds of geography will be a secondary priority to other criteria, such as condition.

5.4.2 Biology

5.4.2.1 Subjects or themes We will rationalise material which does not support our Designated Collection status.

5.4.2.2 Time periodWe will consider material from any time period.

5.4.2.3 Geography We will consider material that does not have a strong link to Yorkshire or our Designated collections.

5.4.3. Costume and Textiles

5.4.3.1 Subjects or themes Disposal of costume is currently a low priority. Areas which may be reviewed in the future are female Victorian and early 20th century dress.

5.4.3.2 Time periodVictorian and early 20th C dress.

5.4.3.3 Geography All areas.

5.4.4 Decorative Arts

5.4.4.1 Subjects or themes We will consider disposing of objects which are in very poor condition and unworthy of conservation, objects not relevant to our collection, duplicate objects or objects that have no paperwork demonstrating their provenance.

We will dispose of British studio ceramic objects donated to the collection for handling purposes which are damaged and may prove dangerous to visitors.

5.4.4.2 Time periodWe will consider material from any time period.

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5.4.4.3 Geography We will consider material from any geographic region.

5.4.5 Fine Art

5.4.5.1 Subjects or themes We will consider disposing of prints which are duplicated in the collection. In this case we would prioritise the disposal of those in the worst state of repair.

Archive and library material that is unrelated to YAG art collections and the history and operation of YAG.

Historic furniture and fittings purchased for display purposes.

Historic frames that cannot be matched to or have never been associated with YAG collections.

5.4.5.2 Time periodWe will consider material from any time period.

5.4.5.3 Geography We will consider material from any geographic region.

5.4.5 Geology

5.4.5.1 Subjects or themes We will rationalise material which does not support our Designated Collection status.

5.4.5.2 Time periodWe will consider material from any time period.

5.4.5.3 Geography We will consider material that does not have a strong link to Yorkshire or our Designated collections.

5.4.6 Yorkshire Philosophical Society Library

5.4.6.1 Subjects or themes We will dispose of material which is no longer relevant to YMT collections or sites and where a strong connection to the Historic YPS library is not present.

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5.4.6.2 Time periodWe will consider material from any time period.

5.4.6.3 Geography We will consider material that does not have a strong link to Yorkshire, the YPS or our Designated collections.

5.4.7 Military History

5.4.7.1 Subjects or themes Disposal of military items is currently a low priority.

5.4.8 Numismatics

5.4.8.1 Subjects or themesWe will rationalise elements of the collection where significant duplication has occurred. This is particularly the case with modern (1700-present) coinage where large volumes have accrued with little supporting material to link them to York or Yorkshire.

5.4.8.2 Time periodRationalisation/Disposal will not be period specific. We will dispose of material from Roman, Anglian, Anglo-Scandinavian, Medieval and Modern periods if it meets disposal criteria.

5.4.8.3 Geography We will dispose of objects where a strong link to Yorkshire cannot be identified. This will include objects that do not derive from the City of York, Yorkshire, or the boundaries of kingdoms of which York was once part. We will also dispose of objects or collections from outside this area, where a connection to Yorkshire – production, use or collection – cannot be sustained. Disposal on grounds of geography will be a secondary priority to other criteria, such as condition.

5.4.9 Photography

5.4.9.1 Subjects or themes The Tempest Anderson collection will not be actively rationalised as it is unique.

The unsorted photographs/slides will be disposed if their subject matter cannot be reasonably identified.

5.4.9.2 Time period

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We will consider material from any time period.

5.4.9.3 Geography We will consider material that does not have a strong link to Yorkshire or our Designated collections.

5.4.10Social History

5.4.10.1 Subjects or themes Items which have no provenance, history and do not necessarily link to Yorkshire should be reviewed to see if they are relevant to the collection. Also items that are in poor condition. Priorities for review for disposal in the Social History Collection are : Furniture, particularly chairs Domestic glass and ceramics Agriculture Buildings and furniture Vehicles

5.4.10.2 Time periodFrom 1800.

5.4.10.3Geography Items with no geographic provenance and/ or are in poor condition.

6 Legal and ethical framework for acquisition and disposal of

items6.1 The museum recognises its responsibility to work within the

parameters of the Museum Association Code of Ethics when considering acquisition and disposal.

7 Collecting policies of other museums7.1 The museum will take account of the collecting policies of

other museums and other organisations collecting in the same or related areas or subject fields. It will consult with these organisations where conflicts of interest may arise or to define areas of specialism, in order to avoid unnecessary duplication and waste of resources.

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7.2 Specific reference is made to the following museum(s)/organisation(s):

7.2.1 Archaeology British MuseumEnglish HeritageDoncaster Metropolitan District CouncilDurham County CouncilDurham City CouncilDurham University East Riding of Yorkshire Council Filey MuseumHarrogate Borough CouncilHull City Council Leeds City CouncilMalton MuseumNidderdale MuseumRichmondshire MuseumRobin Hoods Bay and Fylingdales MuseumRyedale Folk MuseumScarborough Museums TrustWhitby Literary and Philosophical SocietyYork Archaeological TrustYorkshire Dales National Park Authority

7.2.2 BiologyBradford CouncilBurton Constable HallCraven District CouncilDoncaster CouncilEast Riding of Yorkshire Council Filey MuseumFood and Environment Research Agency, Sand HuttonHull City CouncilKirklees CouncilLeeds City Council Middlesbrough CouncilMuseums SheffieldNatural History MuseumNorth Lincolnshire CouncilRedcar & Cleveland Borough CouncilRichmondshire MuseumUniversity of BradfordUniversity of LeedsWhitby Literary and Philosophical Society

7.2.3. Costume and Textiles Beck Isle Museum, Pickering

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East Riding of Yorkshire Council Leeds City Council Ryedale Folk MuseumScarborough Museums TrustThe National TrustYorkshire Museum of FarmingYorkshire Air Museum

7.2.4 Decorative ArtsLeeds Museums and Art Galleries Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, Stoke on TrentShipley Gallery, GatesheadThe Hepworth WakefieldVictoria and Albert Museum

7.2.5 Fine ArtBarnsley Metropolitan Borough CouncilDoncaster Metropolitan District CouncilHarrogate District CouncilHull City CouncilLeeds City Council Museums SheffieldNational Portrait GalleryScarborough Museums TrustTateThe Hepworth WakefieldVictoria and Albert MuseumYorkshire Sculpture Park

7.2.6 GeologyBradford CouncilBurton Constable HallCraven District CouncilDoncaster CouncilEast Riding of Yorkshire CouncilFiley MuseumHull City CouncilKirklees CouncilLeeds City Council Middlesbrough CouncilMuseums SheffieldNational Coal Mining Museum for EnglandNatural History MuseumNorth Lincolnshire CouncilRedcar & Cleveland Borough CouncilRichmondshire Museum Scarborough Museums Trust

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University of BradfordUniversity of LeedsWhitby Literary and Philosophical Society

7.2.7 Yorkshire Philosophical Society LibraryUniversity of YorkCity of York Council York Civic TrustYork ExploreYork Minster Yorkshire Philosophical Society

7.2.8 Military HistoryEnglish HeritageGreen Howards MuseumImperial War MuseumKohima Memorial MuseumLeeds City CouncilNational Army MuseumRoyal ArmouriesYork Army MuseumYorkshire Farming MuseumYorkshire Air Museum

7.2.9 NumismaticsBritish MuseumGreen Howards MuseumHarrogate District CouncilImperial War MuseumKohima Memorial MuseumLeeds City CouncilMalton MuseumNational Army MuseumRoyal ArmouriesTyne and Wear Archives and MuseumsYork Army MuseumYorkshire Air Museum

7.2.10PhotographyBeck Isle MuseumCity of York CouncilEnglish HeritageFiley MuseumNational Media MuseumNational Railway MuseumNestlé UK Archives

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Ryedale Folk MuseumWhitby Literary and Philosophical SocietyYork Archaeological TrustYork ExploreYorkshire Film ArchiveUniversity of York

7.2.11Social HistoryBeck Isle MuseumEast Riding of Yorkshire Council Malton MuseumRyedale Folk MuseumScarborough Museums TrustThe National TrustWhitby Literary and Philosophical SocietyYorkshire Museum of FarmingYorkshire Dales National Park Authority

7.3 Joint Acquisition AgreementsYork Museums Trust will acquire and hold material jointly with third parties. This will be undertaken occasionally when a partnership approach would be beneficial. Where this occurs, there is a presumption in favour of joint ownership with public and third sector organisations. Any joint acquisition will be subject to formal agreement with all partners and will include clauses enabling public access and defining an equitable share of costs.

8 Archival holdings

8.1 Make UpThe wider archives that YMT hold relate only to the collections within its curation and the operation of the museums and gallery in its care. Key holdings include the archives relating to Kirk, Stone , Milner White, Ismay as well as specific ‘archaeological archives’ and natural science monitoring datasets.

Currently, the Biology and Geology (natural science) collections do not contain standalone archive material.

8.2 Principles for acquisition of archivesOn occasion YMT may collect archives that help support a collection, such as archives belonging to an artist. These holdings will be treated as accessioned collections as opposed to object information files. Archives may also be acquired if they contain important information relating to history of collecting in the area

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and thereby information that will enhance the understanding of existing collections. This may include an archive relating to a particular natural science or archaeological society. Consideration must always be given as to whether there is a more appropriate depository for the archive such as a university or local historical archives. All archival acquisitions must reflect the temporal, geographic, or subject specialist priorities of other collecting areas.

The following archives will be considered for acquisition: Artist archives – professional or personal archives of artists and

connected persons reflected in the collections if they are particularly relevant to the existing collections or to York.

Collectors – that specifically support existing collections or enhance their understanding

Company archives – Companies with a strong connection to existing social history collections where deposit with CYC is inappropriate

Archaeological archives – developer led deposition archives Society archives – Business and research archives of historical,

artistic, archaeological or natural science societies with strong links to YMT’s collections

All archives should be subject to rationalisation prior to acquisition to ensure that contents are suitable for long term retention. There is a preference for archives to be accompanied by a bequest to ensure their long-term care.

8.3 Subjects or themes It is recognised that there are a multitude of local and regional biological and geological (natural science) groups and individuals active in Yorkshire. Often these parties act autonomously, and if and when they cease to be active, there is a danger that important scientific records and information could be lost. Natural science archives would be considered for acquisition if they are regionally significant for Yorkshire, and there is no other more appropriate repository. These would aid in interpreting the natural history of Yorkshire, existing YMT collections, and/or Yorkshire’s context in the history of science and scientific development.

8.4 Time periodNatural science archives would be considered which concern any geological period through to the present day.

8.5 GeographyNatural science archives would only be considered if they are demonstrably linked to Yorkshire.

8.6 Themes and priorities for future collecting

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In general, natural science archives only rarely become available. We envisage monitoring active groups and individuals, and working with them as appropriate to determine the content of any potential archive that may arise in the near future, with a view to establishing the most suitable repository for it.

8.7 Themes and priorities for future disposalCurrently, there is no natural science archive, and therefore no material for disposal consideration.

9 Acquisition9.1 Acquisitions Agreement Procedure:

All acquisitions must complete a four stage approval process prior to Accessioning: Recommendation by Curator to Collections Team Meeting If an acquisition incurs a cost in excess of £10,000 or has

significant resource implications, a Senior Curator will obtain approval from Senior Management Team at a bi-weekly meeting or via email

Signing off by the Chief Operating Officer Notification to York Museums Trust Board through bi-monthly

reporting process

9.2 The museum will not acquire any object or specimen unless it is satisfied that the object or specimen has not been acquired in, or exported from, its country of origin (or any intermediate country in which it may have been legally owned) in violation of that country’s laws. (For the purposes of this paragraph ‘country of origin’ includes the United Kingdom).

9.3 In accordance with the provisions of the UNESCO 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, which the UK ratified with effect from November 1 2002, and the Dealing in Cultural Objects (Offences) Act 2003, the museum will reject any items that have been illicitly traded. The governing body will be guided by the national guidance on the responsible acquisition of cultural property issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in 2005.

10 Human remains

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10.1 As the museum holds or intends to acquire human remains from any period, it will follow the procedures in the ‘Guidance for the care of human remains in museums’ issued by DCMS in 2005.

11 Biological and geological material

11.1 So far as biological and geological material is concerned, the museum will not acquire by any direct or indirect means any specimen that has been collected, sold or otherwise transferred in contravention of any national or international wildlife protection or natural history conservation law or treaty of the United Kingdom or any other country, except with the express consent of an appropriate outside authority.

12 Archaeological material

12.1 The museum will not acquire archaeological material (including excavated ceramics) in any case where the governing body or responsible officer has any suspicion that the circumstances of their recovery involved a failure to follow the appropriate legal procedures.

12.2 In England, Wales and Northern Ireland the procedures include reporting finds to the landowner or occupier of the land and to the proper authorities in the case of possible treasure (i.e. the Coroner for Treasure) as set out in the Treasure Act 1996 (as amended by the Coroners & Justice Act 2009).

13 Exceptions

13.1 Any exceptions to the above clauses will only be because the museum is: acting as an externally approved repository of last resort

for material of local (UK) origin acting with the permission of authorities with the

requisite jurisdiction in the country of origin

In these cases the museum will be open and transparent in the way it makes decisions and will act only with the express consent of an appropriate outside authority. The museum will document when these exceptions occur.

14 Spoliation

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14.1 The museum will use the statement of principles ‘Spoliation of Works of Art during the Nazi, Holocaust and World War II period’, issued for non-national museums in 1999 by the Museums and Galleries Commission.

15 The Repatriation and Restitution of objects and human remains

15.1 The museum’s governing body, acting on the advice of the museum’s professional staff, if any, may take a decision to return human remains (unless covered by the ‘Guidance for the care of human remains in museums’ issued by DCMS in 2005), objects or specimens to a country or people of origin. The museum will take such decisions on a case by case basis; within its legal position and taking into account all ethical implications and available guidance. This will mean that the procedures described in 16.1-5 will be followed but the remaining procedures are not appropriate.

15.2 The disposal of human remains from museums in England, Northern Ireland and Wales will follow the procedures in the ‘Guidance for the care of human remains in museums’.

16 Disposal procedures

16.1 Full records will be kept of all decisions on disposals and the items involved and proper arrangements made for the preservation and/or transfer, as appropriate, of the documentation relating to the items concerned, including photographic records where practicable in accordance with SPECTRUM Procedure on deaccession and disposal.

16.2 The governing body will confirm that it is legally free to dispose of an item. Agreements on disposal made with donors will also be taken into account.

16.3 When disposal of a museum object is being considered, the museum will establish if it was acquired with the aid of an external funding organisation. In such cases, any conditions attached to the original grant will be followed. This may include repayment of the original grant and a proportion of the proceeds if the item is disposed of by sale.

16.4 When disposal is motivated by curatorial reasons the procedures outlined below will be followed and the method of disposal may be by gift, sale, exchange or as a last resort - destruction.

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16.5 The decision to dispose of material from the collections will be taken by the governing body only after full consideration of the reasons for disposal. Other factors including public benefit, the implications for the museum’s collections and collections held by museums and other organisations collecting the same material or in related fields will be considered. Expert advice will be obtained and the views of stakeholders such as donors, researchers, local and source communities and others served by the museum will also be sought.

16.6 A decision to dispose of a specimen or object, whether by gift, exchange, sale or destruction (in the case of an item too badly damaged or deteriorated to be of any use for the purposes of the collections or for reasons of health and safety), will be the responsibility of the governing body of the museum acting on the advice of professional curatorial staff, if any, and not of the curator or manager of the collection acting alone.

16.7 Once a decision to dispose of material in the collection has been taken, priority will be given to retaining it within the public domain. It will therefore be offered in the first instance, by gift or sale, directly to other Accredited Museums likely to be interested in its acquisition.

16.8 If the material is not acquired by any Accredited museum to which it was offered as a gift or for sale, then the museum community at large will be advised of the intention to dispose of the material normally through a notice on the MA’s Find an Object web listing service, an announcement in the Museums Association’s Museums Journal or in other specialist publications and websites (if appropriate).

16.9 The announcement relating to gift or sale will indicate the number and nature of specimens or objects involved, and the basis on which the material will be transferred to another institution. Preference will be given to expressions of interest from other Accredited Museums. A period of at least two months will be allowed for an interest in acquiring the material to be expressed. At the end of this period, if no expressions of interest have been received, the museum may consider disposing of the material to other interested individuals and organisations giving priority to organisations in the public domain.

16.10 Any monies received by the museum governing body from the disposal of items will be applied solely and directly for the benefit of the collections. This normally means the

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purchase of further acquisitions. In exceptional cases, improvements relating to the care of collections in order to meet or exceed Accreditation requirements relating to the risk of damage to and deterioration of the collections may be justifiable. Any monies received in compensation for the damage, loss or destruction of items will be applied in the same way. Advice on those cases where the monies are intended to be used for the care of collections will be sought from the Arts Council England.

16.11 The proceeds of a sale will be allocated so it can be demonstrated that they are spent in a manner compatible with the requirements of the Accreditation standard. Money must be restricted to the long-term sustainability, use and development of the collection.

Disposal by exchange

16.12 Disposal by exchange will be kept to a minimum and will only occur with other Accredited museums (UK) or international museums that abide by the principles of Accreditation. The governing body will ensure that issues relating to accountability and impartiality are carefully considered to avoid undue influence on its decision-making process.

16.12.1 In cases where the governing body wishes for sound curatorial reasons to exchange material directly with Accredited (UK) or non-Accredited (international) museums, the procedures in paragraphs 16.1-5 will apply.

16.12.2 If the exchange is proposed to be made with a specific Accredited museum, other Accredited museums which collect in the same or related areas will be directly notified of the proposal and their comments will be requested.

16.12.3 If the exchange is proposed with a non-Accredited museum (international), the museum will place a notice on the MA’s Find an Object web listing service, or make an announcement in the Museums Association’s Museums Journal or in other specialist publications and websites (if appropriate).

16.12.4 Both the notification and announcement must provide information on the number and nature of the specimens or objects involved both in the museum’s collection and those intended to be acquired in exchange. A period of at least two months must be allowed for comments to be received. At the end of this period, the governing body must consider

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the comments before a final decision on the exchange is made.

Disposal by destruction

16.13 If it is not possible to dispose of an object through transfer or sale, the governing body may decide to destroy it.

16.14 It is acceptable to destroy material of low intrinsic significance (duplicate mass-produced articles or common specimens which lack significant provenance) where no alternative method of disposal can be found.

16.15 Destruction is also an acceptable method of disposal in cases where an object is in extremely poor condition, has high associated health and safety risks or is part of an approved destructive testing request identified in an organisation’s research policy.

16.16 Where necessary, specialist advice will be sought to establish the appropriate method of destruction. Health and safety risk assessments will be carried out by trained staff where required.

16.17 The destruction of objects should be witnessed by an appropriate member of the museum workforce. In circumstances where this is not possible, e.g. the destruction of controlled substances, a police certificate should be obtained and kept in the relevant object history file.

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