Meaning & Definition
noun
The place of origin or earliest known history of something.
The provenance of the ancient artifact was traced back to a small village in Italy.
The history of ownership of a valued object or work of art.
The painting's provenance was well-documented, adding to its value at the auction.
The source or origin of something, especially of a piece of information or knowledge.
Scholars are careful to verify the provenance of the manuscripts before including them in their research.
Etymology
From French 'provenance', meaning 'origin' or 'source'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
provenance research:
Investigating the origins and history of an object or artwork.
provenance data:
Information that traces the history and ownership of an item.
chain of provenance:
A sequence that outlines the previous ownership of an item.
Slang Meanings
Legacy
He talks about his family's provenance like it’s a legacy he must uphold.
Roots
She likes to know her roots and the provenance of her family history.