Reading
Four fields to fill
Choose a work and write the artist or workshop as recorded by the museum, the title, the visible evidence and the source used to check it. If the title comes from a modern cataloguer, keep it distinct from words actually painted on the panel. A modern title and an old inscription answer different questions.
What to do with disagreements
When an old label and a current museum record disagree, note both and look for the reason the record gives. A group split into separate panels or a damaged attribute can change how secure an identification is. A useful answer can specify exactly which part is unclear.
Key takeaway
Keep authorship, subject and evidence in separate fields.
Visual study
Painted letters beside the halo identify Matthias, who holds a green book against his chest.
Workshop of Simone Martini · c. 1317–1319 · CC0The bearded man holds the shaft of a spear along the right edge. The museum considers both Thomas and Matthias.
Jusepe de Ribera · National Gallery, London, NG6577