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provenance

By Pamela Wiggins, About.com

Robert Burns' Chair Dubbed “The Bletherin' Bitch” Referring to a Line from One of His Poems

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Definition: an antique or collectible's verifiable (through receipts, photographs, etc.) history which includes who owned the piece and where it was located; can add measurable value to an object, especially if the previous owner or person who crafted the piece is well-known
Pronunciation: prah-vuh-nantz
Also Known As: origin, source
Examples:
Scottish poet Robert Burns' chair, “The Bletherin' Bitch," named for a line from one of his poems, is more valuable due to its verifiable provenance.

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