Guidelines for Requesting Loans from the Museum Collection
Winterthur builds upon the vision of Henry Francis du Pont to inspire and educate through its collection, estate, and academic programs by engaging diverse audiences in the study, preservation, and interpretation of American material culture, art, design, and history.
In doing so, Winterthur seeks to fully support loans to cultural and educational institutions where the object will be displayed as part of an exhibition that is educational in nature, will benefit a diverse audience, and will make a significant contribution to the field. Winterthur considers loan requests from institutions that can meet the loan requirements. Winterthur does not lend to individuals.
Requesting a Loan
Send a formal loan request to the attention of Chris Strand, Charles F. Montgomery Director and CEO, via mail or email at museumloanrequests@winterthur.org.
A formal request includes:
- A written letter on institutional letterhead
- American Alliance of Museums (AAM) General Facility Report or satisfactory alternate for each venue. Winterthur prefers that facility reports are the American Alliance of Museums standardized version.
- Any accompanying documents such as floor plans and exhibition designs.
Include in the request letter:
- Title of the exhibition
- Exhibition dates at each venue
- Object(s) requested including object ID number(s)
- An exhibition abstract including how the requested object(s) would add value to the exhibition.
Loan requests should be received at least twelve (12) months in advance of the expected shipping date.
Loan Review Process
Once a formal request is received, an initial review is conducted by the Curatorial, Conservation, Interpretation & Engagement, and Exhibitions departments. As part of the review process, Winterthur may request additional information. If the departments recommend approval, the request is submitted for final review and approval to the Director of Collections, Director and CEO, and, if required by internal policy, the Board of Directors. Once final approval is granted, the Registrar’s office will send a formal approval letter with an Outgoing Loan Agreement that contains the conditions of the loan.
Borrower Responsibilities
The borrower shall bear for all expenses of the loan including, but not limited to, conservation treatment, photography, framing, mounting, crating, crate disposal, packing, shipping, charges related to special requirements or restrictions, customs, security, wall-to-wall fine arts insurance, courier expenses, and appraisals.
Winterthur shall be sent two (2) copies of any exhibition catalogue or materials and extended two (2) invitations to any opening event in relation to the exhibition. Winterthur staff will be granted free entrance to the exhibition.
Photography and Reproduction
Photographs and permission to publish may be obtained by contacting Winterthur’s Photographic Services at ImageRequest@winterthur.org.
Contact
Please contact the Registration Department at museumloanrequests@winterthur.org with questions regarding the loan process.