Originalmedium
Originalmedium is an art-historical term used to denote the medium with which a work was originally created by the artist. The concept emphasizes the technical and material basis of a work, distinguishing it from later reproductions, alterations, or restorations. In scholarly practice, Originalmedium appears in catalog entries, provenance records, and conservation reports to help establish authenticity, technique, and care requirements.
Etymology and scope: the term combines “original” and “medium” to signal the material reality of a work
Practical use: identifying the Originalmedium supports informed handling, storage, and environmental controls, since different media (oil,
Limitations: for some objects the original medium may be unknown, has been altered, or changed through restoration,
Relation to authenticity and provenance: establishing the Originalmedium contributes to the artwork’s technical history and provenance
See also: provenance, conservation, materials analysis, art technique.