Observation, source, interpretation.

1. Start with what a visitor can see

We describe direction, scale, material, page layout, architectural placement, light and visible condition. These observations create a structured record without assigning a language, date, person or meaning on appearance alone. A photograph is treated as one view shaped by lens, lighting and access.

2. Name the source of identification

When an image record or collection catalogue identifies an object as a hieratic inventory, Coptic liturgical codex or dated Arabic inscription, the article states that the identification comes from the source. Object titles, museum numbers and image credits are retained so a reader can check the record rather than trusting a detached caption.

3. Preserve uncertainty

Damage, missing context and incomplete records are not repaired with confident prose. We use qualified wording, preserve date ranges and avoid completing missing letters or scenes. Similar appearance is a question for comparison, not proof of authorship, workshop, ruler, dialect or chronology.

4. Do not manufacture translations

The site explains visual structures that can help a visitor orient themselves, but it does not publish invented translations or sound out a historic text from a photograph. Translation requires language competence, an adequate image or edition and knowledge of the relevant script and period. When a source provides a translation, it should be cited as that source’s work.

5. Keep communities and present use visible

Historic writing does not belong only to an abstract past. Coptic remains a liturgical language, Arabic inscriptions sit within living religious and urban spaces, and monuments and collections are cared for by people now. Posted rules, worship, visitor access and conservation needs take priority over obtaining an image.

6. Credit every reusable image

The site uses locally stored image variants derived from openly licensed or public-domain files. The creator, source page and licence appear beside the main image and on the sources and credits page. Reuse must follow the terms on the original file page, especially attribution and share-alike requirements.

7. Prefer a useful limit to a broad claim

A field note should help the reader collect better evidence. It should not make the reader feel qualified to authenticate, date, conserve or translate an object after one article. Where the question exceeds observation, the next step is an official collection record, site publication or relevant specialist.