Documenting the provenance of a wood carving is essential for verifying its authenticity, preserving its history, and enhancing its value. Here are the best ways to ensure thorough documentation:

1. Artist Certification: Obtain a signed certificate of authenticity from the artist, detailing the carving’s creation date, materials, and unique features.

2. Photographic Evidence: Take high-quality photos of the carving from multiple angles, including close-ups of signatures, markings, and distinctive details.

3. Written Records: Maintain a logbook or digital file with purchase receipts, exhibition history, and any restoration work performed.

4. Third-Party Appraisal: Have the carving evaluated by a certified appraiser to confirm its origin, age, and artistic significance.

5. Blockchain Technology: Use blockchain or digital ledgers to create an immutable record of ownership and transactions.

By following these steps, collectors and artists can safeguard the legacy of wood carvings, ensuring their historical and monetary value endures for generations.