Numerical, 1925 - 1950, 1925-1950

The Numerical series is the general files of the department’s curators. Correspondence and other materials are distributed among specific subject files. The records relate to the day-to-day activities of the department, including budgets, staffing, interdepartmental efforts (especially education), Works Progress Administration programs, and contractors. The records are rich in documentation of loans, sales, purchases, and exchanges with individuals, galleries, buyers, and dealers. These files provide insight into collection policies, budget restrictions, research on objects, contact with scholars, repairs, appraisals, and proposed exhibitions.

The files contain early documentations, including correspondence, research and lecture notes, publications (including drafts), and bibliographies. Correspondence and invitations regarding scholarly meetings, lecture dates, and exhibitions provide additional information on the activities of the curators. In addition, the records include membership documentations, resumes and non-museum appointments.

Of particular interest is the correspondence regarding Laurance P. Roberts’ nomination and appointment as the Director of the Museum. Also interesting is the correspondence between the Brooklyn Museum and buyers for the Museum in China and Japan, which provide insight into objects sought. The records are detailed concerning object loans and acquisitions, particularly the effects of the depression on object acquisitions and inquiries about objects and private collections.