Cataloger's Reference Shelf
Graphic Materials - Rules for Describing Original Items and Historical
Collections
Cataloger's Reference Shelf
Graphic Materials - Rules for Describing Original Items and Historical
Collections
3D. Dimensions (Physical Description Area)
(MARC 21 Bibliographic: 300c Physical Description )
The measurement of graphic materials to produce a statement of dimensions for the catalog record is an important activity, since dimensions aid in identifying the material and also in calculating space requirements for storage or exhibition. Different types of graphic material require different types of measurements to reflect adequately the size of the image or the whole item. Both the primary and secondary supports of images may also figure importantly in measurements.
For instructions on the use of spaces before and after prescribed punctuation, see 0D.
Precede the dimensions with a semicolon ( ; ).
3D2.1. Generally, the statement of dimension shows the height x width. The side for height and the side for width are determined with reference to the position in which the image would be viewed. Height is always expressed first.
3D2.2. Generally, give the height x width for all graphics in centimeters rounded off to the next whole centimeter up (e.g., if a measurement is 37.1 centimeters, record it as 38 cm.). Use the abbreviation "cm." The following rules give guidance for special cases.
Optionally, for single items, give the dimensions to the nearest millimeter.
Since the size of some photographic materials is standardized in the trade in inches or millimeters, the standard size may optionally be given in these cases. Use the abbreviations "in." and "mm."
Optional addition. Add inches in parentheses after the metric size, rounding off the size up to the next quarter inch. (When using the option of measuring to the nearest millimeter, give the additional size to the nearest eighth inch.)
3D3.1. For single drawings and planographic and relief prints, generally record the dimensions of the pictorial area, specified as such. If desirable, record the dimensions of the pictorial area including printed text. For single intaglio prints, record the dimensions of the plate mark (see also 3D5). In any case, precede the dimension by the aspect that has been measured, that is, "image," "image and text," "plate mark," or "sheet."
3D3.2. When an image consists of more than one sheet, measure the whole sheet.
Optionally, when the sheet sizes are uniform, give the individual sheet sizes.
3D3.3. For unmounted photographic prints and those not on standard mounts, generally record the dimensions of the primary support.
3D3.4. For photographic prints affixed to standard mounts, such as cabinet cards, record only the dimensions of the mount.
3D3.5. For negatives, record only the dimensions of the base of the emulsion.
3D3.6. Optional addition. Add other dimensions that help to identify the item (e.g., when there is a large difference between the image and primary support size) or that help to assess storage or exhibition requirements. Specify the aspect that has been measured. Separate each additional dimension by a comma.
3D4. Non-rectangular and Irregular Shapes
3D4.1. For circular shapes, give the diameter, specified as such. Use the abbreviation "diam."
3D4.2. For oval shapes, give the major and minor axes, specified as "oval."
3D4.3. For an irregular shape, measure by squaring it off at the greatest points with two transparent triangles or strips of plastic. Use the abbreviation "irreg." and, if desirable, whatever word or phrase describes the shape.
3D5. Intaglio Prints on Trimmed Sheets or with Eradicated Plate Marks
When a sheet has been cut on or inside the plate mark subsequent to the creation of an intaglio print or the plate mark is indistinguishable, give the dimensions of the sheet and explain in a note.
When an item is kept folded, give the dimensions of the primary support and add the dimensions when folded.
3D7. Sight Measurements and Framed Items
3D7.1. When the full image is not visible because of a non-removable mat or other obstruction, give the sight measurements and, if desirable, the dimensions of the mat, etc.
3D7.2. When the item is in a frame of specific historical importance, the frame is considered a part of the work itself, or the work is permanently framed at the request of the creator or donor, give the dimensions of the frame separately, specified as such.
With daguerreotypes, specify the plate size, if known.
3D9.1. In general, give the measurements for a collection according to the terms of the first statement of extent and record only the outside dimensions. When some images are designed to be viewed horizontally and some vertically, give the measurements according to the majority.
3D9.2. When the items, containers, or volumes are of two sizes, give both. When they are of more than two sizes, give the greatest height of any of them followed by the greatest width of any of them and the words "or smaller."
See also: