What should be the main focus when documenting the condition of a high valued item?

When documenting the condition of a high-valued item, the primary focus should be on the overall integrity and existing damage. This approach ensures that any pre-existing issues such as wear and tear, stains, structural damage, or other impairments are accurately recorded. For high-valued items, especially, thorough documentation is vital for establishing a baseline condition, which can be crucial for insurance purposes, restoration, or resale value assessments.

By focusing on overall integrity and existing damage, a detailed, honest report is created, which serves as a protective measure for both the owner and anyone involved in the item’s cleaning or restoration. Such documentation provides clear evidence of the item’s condition before any work is undertaken, thus fostering accountability and transparency during the cleaning process.

While aspects like color and aesthetic appeal, functionality and usability, or owner’s personal memories are important considerations, they are secondary to understanding and documenting any structural or material issues. This ensures that proper care can be taken during cleaning and maintenance to preserve the item's value and condition.