3

EDITORIAL RULES

3.1

Hierarchical Relationships

Included in this chapter

• Parents (required)
• Sort Order (required-default)
• Historical Flag (required-default)^[1]
• Dates for relationship to parents
• Parent string (required-default)
• Facet or Hierarchy Code
  
  
  • Example
    [as displayed to end users on line]
    

3.1.1

Parents (required)

3.1.1.1

Definition
The broader context(s) for the concept record; parents refer to Hierarchical Relationships, which are broader/narrower, reciprocal relationships between records.

3.1.1.2

Fields

• 1. Parent: The parent_key is the numeric Subject ID of the preferred parent (e.g., 100001). The records for the child and parent are linked by their ID. When an editor places a record in a hierarchy in VCS, she/he chooses the correct parent and the system makes the link using the two IDs.
  
  
• 2. Preferred Parent Flag: Indicates if this is the preferred parent or a non-preferred parent. Each concept may have only one preferred parent. Values are P[referred] and N[on-preferred].
  
  
• 3. Parent String: A display generated by the system by concatenating the descriptors of the immediate parent and other ancestors, used to give context to the concept's descriptor in horizontal displays (as opposed to vertical, hierarchical displays) (e.g., in parentheses in this example: Red-figure (Greek vase painting styles, Aegean pottery styles …)).
  
  
  • Example:
    
  • [from the VCS Subject Edit window for Red-figure]

[from the VCS Hierarchy View for Red-figure]

3.1.1.3

Values
Values are concatenated automatically by the system, using the preferred name, qualifier (if any), and appropriate indentation.

3.1.1.4

Sources: Warrant for hierarchical placement
Given that the hierarchical placement of concepts is so idiosyncratic and specialized to the AAT, published and other sources do not provide warrant for hierarchical placement. Use precedent in the AAT, and place the terms in accordance with the internal logic and history of the AAT. Consult with your supervisor when in doubt.

3.1.1.5

Discussion
In the Getty Vocabularies, each record is linked to its immediate parent by means of a numeric ID. The hierarchy is constructed through these links.

• The hierarchy in the AAT refers to the method of structuring and displaying the concept records within their broader contexts. Facets, levels called "Hierarchies," and levels called "Guide Terms" (published with angled brackets), provide logical structure to the hierarchies. Relationships in the hierarchy are indicated with indentation. Hierarchical relationships in the AAT generally represent genus/species relationships (as opposed to whole/part relationships). The AAT is polyhierarchical, meaning that concepts can belong to more than one parent. Hierarchical relationships are referred to by genealogical terms: child, children, siblings, parent, grandparent, ancestors, descendents, etc.

3.1.1.5.1

Hierarchy display
In VCS, the hierarchical relationships are visible from the Hierarchy View window and also from the Subject Edit full record window, under Hierarchies (where it displays in a horizontal string). Hierarchical relationships are created in the Hierarchy Display of VCS or by loading candidate data.

• Root of the hierarchy: AAT root, named Top of the AAT hierarchies, is the highest level of the hierarchy (the so-called root). The facets are located directly below the Root. Each facet has one or more levels known as "Hierarchies" (which can be confusing, given that the entire structure is also referred to as being constructed of "hierarchies").
  
  
• Hierarchical displays are system-generated from the preferred term, the qualifier (if any), and links to parents and other ancestors. Indentation is used to indicate genus/species relationships. In the example above, Red-figure is the immediate parent of Florid Style, and <Greek vase painting styles> is an ancestor (the grandparent). All of the concepts below Red-figure are its children, and they are siblings to each other.
  
  
• The AAT hierarchy has many levels of depth, although the display usually shows only the first level below the target record and all levels above it.
  
  
• In VCS, the plus sign indicates where more levels may be visible (click on the plus sign in VCS to view the children under any level). In the online display, click on the hierarchy symbol.
  
  

3.1.1.5.2

Major Subdivisions: Facets and hierarchies
Facets constitute the major subdivisions of the AAT hierarchical structure. A facet contains a homogeneous class of concepts, the members or children of which share characteristics that distinguish them from members of other classes. For example, marble refers to a substance used in the creation of art and architecture, and it is found in the Materials facet. Impressionist denotes a visually distinctive style of art, and it is found in the Styles and Periods facet.

The so-called "Hierarchies" are arranged within the seven facets of the AAT. The facets are conceptually organized in a scheme that proceeds from abstract concepts to concrete, physical artifacts. A broader term provides an immediate class or genus to a concept, and serves to clarify its meaning. The narrower term is always a type of, kind of, example of, or manifestation of its broader context. For example, orthographic drawings is the broader context for plans (drawings) because all plans are orthographic (i.e., the projectors are perpendicular to the picture plane).

ASSOCIATED CONCEPTS FACET
Hierarchy: Associated Concepts

PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES FACET
Hierarchies: Attributes and Properties, Conditions and Effects, Design Elements, Color

STYLES AND PERIODS FACET
Hierarchy: Styles and Periods

AGENTS FACET
Hierarchies: People, Organizations, Living Organisms

ACTIVITIES FACET
Hierarchies: Disciplines, Functions, Events, Physical and Mental Activities, Processes and Techniques

MATERIALS FACET
Hierarchy: Materials

OBJECTS FACET
Hierarchies:
Object Groupings and Systems
Object Genres
Components
Built Environment: Settlements and Landscapes, Built Complexes and Districts, Single Built Works, Open Spaces and Site Elements
Furnishings and Equipment: Furnishings, Costume, Tools and Equipment, Weapons and Ammunition, Measuring Devices, Containers, Sound Devices, Recreational Artifacts, Transportation Vehicles
Visual and Verbal Communication: Visual Works, Exchange Media, Information Forms

3.1.1.5.3

Guide terms
Guide Terms are records that serve as place savers to create a level in the hierarchy under which the AAT can collocate related concepts. Guide terms are not used by end users for indexing or cataloging. In displays and whenever published, Guide Terms are enclosed in angled brackets (e.g., <costume by function>)

• Example
  [partial display for "costume"]
  
  
• Top of the AAT hierarchies
  .... Objects Facet
  ........ Furnishings and Equipment
  ............ Costume
  ................ costume
  .................... <costume by form>
  ........................ main garments
  ........................ outerwear
  ........................ underwear
  .................... <costume by function>
  ........................ bearing cloths
  ........................ binders (costume)
  ........................<ceremonial costume>
  ........................ coverups
  ........................ goalie's masks
  ........................ habits
  ........................ masks (costume)
  [etc.]

3.1.1.6

RULES for creating hierarchical relationships

3.1.1.6.1

Facets and "Hierarchies"
The records for the top organizational levels of the AAT, including Facets and "Hierarchies," may not be edited, merged, or moved without the permission of your supervisor. You may not add a new Facet or Hierarchy.

3.1.1.6.3

Adding "Guide Term" level
Create a Guide Term level only 1) to be consistent with other similar hierarchies in the AAT or 2) when a valid concept record will not suffice to mark the level. See also 3.3 Terms.

• Examples
• <photographs by technique>
• <single built works by location or context>
• <single built works by function>
  
  
• Note that the angled brackets appear only in displays after the data is processed. Do NOT type angled brackets in the term field. Indicate that a record is a Guide terms by using the Record Type field (see 3.2 Identifying numbers, status flags, and subject sources), and the publishing routine will insert the angled brackets.
  
  
• Example
  
  
  
  
  
• Constructing a Guide Term
  If it is necessary to construct a guide term, create a term that will represent the characteristics of the division by which a listing of narrower terms is clustered. Use the precedent of other guide terms in the same or a similar area of the hierarchies.
  

• Examples
  
• <single built works by location or context>
  ... gatehouses
  
  
• <single built works by function>
  ... dwellings
  
  
• Types of Guide Terms
  Make Guide Terms consistent with other divisions in the same or a similar hierarchy. Use established types of guide term consistently throughout the AAT, such as when particular characteristics of division, such as form and function, are applicable. Three recurrent guide terms are <...by form>, <...by function>, and <...by location or context>.
  
  
  • by form: Use this guide term level to collocate terms for images and objects that are distinguishable by their physical form or by the manner in which they are presented. In general, if an object is identified by sight, then it is located under a "by form" guide term.
    
    
  • by function: Use this guide term level to collocate terms for objects that are distinguishable by the particular purpose for which they are designed or used. If an object is identifiable by its intended use, it is placed under a "by function" guide term.
    
    
  • by location or context: Use this guide term level to collocate terms for objects that are distinguishable by their use or application within a particular physical location. If an object is identifiable by association with specific surroundings, it is placed under a "by location" guide term.
    
    
  • others: Use additional guide term levels as needed to maintain consistency. The nature of certain subject areas may require the use of subject-specific guide terms, such as <...by method of representation> in the Visual Works hierarchy.

3.1.1.6.4

How to choose the parent
Position terms under the most logical broader term, keeping in mind the particular logic evident throughout the AAT. Choose the parent based on precedent by consulting records for similar types of concepts in the AAT.

• Specificity of placement
  Position the AAT record under the most specific parent possible. Be consistent with the precedent of other records in the same or similar sections of the hierarchies.
  
  
• Is this parent correct?
  With the descriptor of the concept record in mind, determine if this concept is a type of, kind of, example of, or manifestation of the proposed parent concept. If it is, then a genus/species relationship exists.
  
  
  • Make sure that each subset of narrower terms clustered under a broader term is independent and mutually exclusive in meaning. Occasionally meanings may overlap among siblings, but avoid this when possible.
    
    
  • Be sure that the genus/species logic holds true upwards through all levels of the hierarchy above the concept.
    
    
    • Examples
      [the most specific parent for "soufflé dishes" is "baking dishes"; "soufflé dishes" is a "type of" or "example of" all ancestors all the way up the hierarchy; its meaning is exclusive of all its siblings]
      
      
    • Top of the AAT hierarchies
      .... Objects Facet
      ........ Furnishings and Equipment
      ............ Containers
      ................ containers
      .................... <containers by function or context>
      ........................ <culinary containers>
      ............................ <containers for cooking food>
      ................................ <vessels for cooking food>
      .................................... bakeware
      ........................................ baking dishes
      ............................................ casseroles
      ............................................ pie plates
      ............................................ ramekins
      ............................................ souffl$00e dishes
      ............................................ terrines
      
      

    [the most specific parent for "Flamboyant" is "<French Medieval architecture styles>"; "Flamboyant" is a "type of" all ancestors all the way up the hierarchy; its meaning is exclusive of all its siblings]
    
    

    • Top of the AAT hierarchies
      .... Styles and Periods Facet
      ........ Styles and Periods
      ............ <styles and periods by region>
      ................ European
      .................... <European styles and periods>
      ........................ <Medieval styles and periods>
      ............................ Medieval
      ................................ <Medieval regional styles>
      .................................... <Northern European Medieval styles>
      ........................................ <French Medieval styles>
      ............................................<French Medieval architecture styles>
      ................................................ Angevin Gothic
      ................................................ Flamboyant
      ................................................ Rayonnant
      
      
• Quick test: The genus/species relationship is illustrated by the "all-some test." The children should all be a type of, kind of, example of, or manifestation of the parent, but from the parent's point of view, it encompasses only some of any given child. As illustrated in the example below, all houses [child] are dwellings [parent], and some dwellings [parent] are houses [child] (but not all dwellings are houses). If this test does not work, the placement of the child is incorrect.
  
  
  • Example
    
    
  • Top of the AAT hierarchies
    .... Objects Facet
    ........ Built Environment
    ............ Single Built Works
    ................ <single built works>
    .................... <single built works by specific type>
    ........................ <single built works by function>
    ............................ <residential structures>
    ................................ dwellings
    .................................... houses

3.1.1.6.5

Determining levels of the hierarchy

• Consistent levels within the AAT
  There is no set number of levels within the AAT. Place the concept record only as deep in the hierarchy as necessary; do not make frivolous or unnecessary levels. However, at the same time be consistent with the rest of the AAT hierarchy, which often includes up to a dozen or more levels.
• Examples
  ["culture" at level 5]
  
• Top of the AAT hierarchies
  .... Associated Concepts Facet
  ........ Associated Concepts
  ............ <culture and related concepts>
  ................ culture
  
  
  ["biggins" at level 13]
  
• Top of the AAT hierarchies
  .... Objects Facet
  ........ Furnishings and Equipment
  ............ Containers
  ................ containers
  .................... <containers by function or context>
  ........................ <culinary containers>
  ............................ <containers for serving and consuming food>
  ................................ <vessels for serving and consuming food>
  .................................... <vessels for serving drinks>
  ........................................ coffeepots
  ............................................ biggins (vessels)
  
  
• Levels with identical names
  In some cases, the levels of the AAT seem to be very redundant, where multiple levels, one under the other, have names that differ only in capitalization. This occurs only with facets, "hierarchies," and guide terms; it should never occur with concept term names. (The redundancy is an artifact of the AAT development over 20 years; we may streamline the AAT sometime in the future, but such a major overhaul will not happen soon.)
  
  
  • It is unlikely that you will have reason to add levels with redundant names to the AAT. However, if you find a situation where it may be necessary to do so, consult with your supervisor.
    

• Choosing the correct facet
  As a first step in choosing a hierarchical position for a record, look up similar concepts in the AAT, using basic information that you know about the concept.
  
  
  • For example, if you wish to place the term sulfuryl fluoride in the AAT, and you know that it is an inorganic chemical compound used as an insecticide, where does it go? If you browse around in the AAT, you will see that there are many chemicals listed under inorganic material, but none under insecticide. Therefore, you would abide by precedent and place sulfuryl fluoride with the other inorganic materials, and refer to its usage as an insecticide in the Scope Note. You may surmise the logic: The AAT cannot place every chemical compound under its usage because many have many uses.

3.1.1.6.6

In the Associated Concepts Facet
In this facet include terms for all abstract concepts and phenomena that relate to the study and execution of various areas of human thought and activity, including architecture and art in all media, as well as related disciplines. Also covered here are theoretical and critical concerns, ideologies, attitudes, and social or cultural movements (e.g., beauty, balance, connoisseurship, metaphor, freedom, socialism).

    »Associated Concepts hierarchy

The Associated Concepts facet has only one hierarchy, also called Associated Concepts.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for branches of learning and areas of specialization, professions and professional specialties (e.g., history) go in the Disciplines hierarchy, but concepts associated with these disciplines (e.g., positivism) belong here in Associated Concepts.

• Terms for styles and movements (e.g., Neoclassical, Impressionist) belong in the Styles and Periods hierarchy, but forms of expression (e.g., abstraction) and broad categories of art and architecture that are not specific to a given people or period (e.g., organic architecture, street art) belong here in Associated Concepts.

• Organization
  Records are arranged according to the field of study or activity to which they relate, such as <concepts in the arts> (e.g., connoisseurship), <environmental concepts> (e.g., green design), <legal concepts> (e.g., liability), <psychological concepts> (e.g., perception), and <technology and related concepts> (e.g., infrastructure). Place concepts that relate to many fields of study (e.g., methodology) under <multi-disciplinary concepts>.
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be nouns. Use of the singular or plural form is decided on the basis of literary warrant and common usage. Provide adjectival forms as alternate descriptors in some cases (e.g., for Buddhism, alternate descriptor = Buddhist). Keep in mind that descriptors and alternate descriptors may be used by end users in combination with other terms (e.g., Buddhist + monasteries; Inuit + customs). For further discussion regarding descriptors, see 3.3 Terms.

3.1.1.6.7

In the Physical Attributes facet
In this facet include terms for the perceptible or measurable characteristics of materials and artifacts as well as features of materials and artifacts that are not separable as components. Included are characteristics such as size and shape, chemical properties of materials, qualities of texture and hardness, and features such as surface ornament and color (e.g., strapwork, borders, round, waterlogged, brittleness).

    »Attributes and Properties hierarchy

Contains terms for inherent characteristics, especially physical characteristics of materials and objects. Excluded are descriptors for colors and color properties, which are found in the separate Color hierarchy.

• Attribute or Property? In common usage, the distinction between which characteristics may be called "attributes" and which "properties" is not always clear, thus a separation between the two has not always been made in the hierarchy. As a general guideline, "attributes" refers to characteristics of individual objects, items, or entities, and the descriptors are mostly used to describe the thing; they often are readily apparent, though not quantifiable by an established standard. "Properties" refers here to characteristics that suggest how a material, or sometimes a grouping of things, will respond under certain conditions; they often are quantifiable, although often are not apparent without examination or testing.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Other hierarchies include alternate descriptors that may serve as attributes (e.g., carved is the alternate descriptor of carving; wooden is the alternate descriptor of wood). Do not repeat such terms in Attributes and Properties.

• Descriptors for color names belong in the Color hierarchy.
  
  
• Certain physical phenomena that are closely associated with physical and chemical properties (e.g., luminescence) belong in the Associated Concepts hierarchy.
  
  
• Expressions that describe effects of particular physical circumstances on materials or objects belong in the Conditions and Effects hierarchy (e.g., cracks).
  
  
• Descriptive characteristics may also be placed in various other hierarchies as parts of compound terms (e.g., split-level houses).
  

• Organization
  Most descriptors should appear under <attributes and properties by specific type>, either directly under that guide term or grouped when necessary under a more specific guide term (e.g., under <positional attributes>).
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Some descriptors may be adjectives; others should be nouns with an adjective provided as an alternate descriptor. Choose the form based on precedent, together with need and usage. Remember that descriptors and alternate descriptors will be used by end users in combination with other terms (e.g., handmade + carpets; porous + stone). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

    »Conditions and Effects hierarchy

Contains descriptors for physical characteristics perceptible in or on materials or objects that are the result of particular physical circumstances or of spontaneous physical or chemical change.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for processes of physical change are found in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy, and some of those descriptors can designate both the process and the effect (e.g., corrosion).

• Descriptors for forms or effects purposefully added to objects as ornament (e.g., air traps) are found in the Design Elements hierarchy.

• Organization
  Place the record directly under <conditions and effects> if the phenomenon appears in various types of material or objects (e.g., cracks). Place the record under a more specific guide term if there is a subdivision that applies (e.g., <conditions and effects: paper>.
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be in the noun form, with alternate descriptors provided as appropriate. In some cases the alternate is the singular noun (e.g., defects with the alternate defect) and others are an adjective form (e.g., wear, alternate worn). Remember that end users use descriptors and alternate descriptors in combination with other terms (e.g., paint + cleavage; surface + defects). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.
  

    »Design Elements hierarchy

The Design Elements hierarchy contains terms for conventionalized and recurring shapes and arrangements of forms used in the design of many types of objects and their ornament. These may be two-dimensional such as painted zigzags, in relief such as carved rosettes, or may refer to the shape of discrete objects, such as Celtic crosses sculpted in stone.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for certain attributes related to shape or position are in the Attributes and Properties hierarchy (e.g., convex, concentric) and should not be repeated in Design Elements.

• Three-dimensional ornamental components of structures and other objects are found in the Components hierarchy (e.g., finials).

• Organization
  Arrange the hierarchy in sections for applied decoration (e.g., banding), for individual motifs (e.g., palmettes), for areas of ornamental design (e.g., borders), and for repetitive patterns (e.g., interlace).
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be plural nouns except where usage dictates the singular, including most pattern types (e.g., herringbone). For those in the plural, make singular forms as alternate descriptors if appropriate. Note that end users will create terms for motifs based on objects or figures, by using alternate descriptors from other hierarchies with the term motif (e.g., shell + motif; tree + motif). For further discussion regarding creating terms, see 3.3 Terms.

    »Color hierarchy

The Color hierarchy contains the names of colors and terms for color in the sense of qualities perceived through vision responding to different wavelengths of light. Also included are terms for types of color (e.g., cool colors) and color?related phenomena (e.g., color mixture).

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for inherent physical characteristics other than color but which may relate to color (e.g., permanence) belong in the Attributes and Properties hierarchy.
  

• Terms for physical phenomena perceptible in color (e.g., abrash, color shift) are in the Conditions and Effects hierarchy.>
  
  
• Terms for individual and repeating design elements such as signs and symbols, motifs, patterns, and areas of decoration are in the Design Elements hierarchy (e.g., crosses, Tudor roses, frets).
  
  
• Terms for materials used to impart color to physical things (e.g., dye, pigment) are found in the Materials hierarchy.
  

• Organization
  Records are arranged in two sections: colors and <color and color-related phenomena>.
  

• The first section is subdivided into <chromatic colors> (e.g., grayish brown), neutrals (e.g., black), and <color types> (e.g., primary colors).
  
  
• The second section is subdivided into color (e.g., reflected color), <color properties> (e.g., undertone), <color-related attributes> (e.g., monochrome), and <color-related effects> (e.g., tint).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be in noun or adjectival form as appropriate. Provide singular forms as alternate descriptors to plural noun descriptors. End users may combine descriptors and alternate descriptors other terms (deep greenish blue + silk; warm color + perception; deep purple + tint). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

3.1.1.6.8

In the Styles and Periods facet
In this facet include terms for stylistic groupings and distinct chronological periods that are relevant to art, architecture, and the decorative arts (e.g., French, Louis XIV, Xia, Black-figure, Abstract Expressionist). The names of cultures are also included.

    »Styles and Periods hierarchy

The Styles and Periods facet has only one hierarchy, also called Styles and Periods. It contains the names of art and architecture styles, historical periods, and art movements. Names of peoples, cultures, individuals, and sites are included if they designate distinct styles or periods (e.g., Yoruba, Louis XIV). Geographic descriptors are included for broad cultural regions and nations.

• Style, Period, or Culture? In common usage, the distinction between which characteristics may be called "styles," which are "periods," and which are "culture" is not always clear due to frequent overlap, thus a separation between the three has not always been made in the hierarchy.
  
  
• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for genres of art, including all the arts not specific to a given people or period (e.g., amateur art, pattern poetry) are found in the Associated Concepts hierarchy, as are descriptors for general approaches to art (e.g., realism).

• Specific movements named after such approaches are found here in the Styles and Periods hierarchy (e.g., Realist).

• Organization
  The hierarchy is organized in two sections.

• The first section, <styles and periods by general era>, contains terms that apply generally to several various regions or cultures (e.g., prehistoric).
  
  
• The second section <styles and periods by region> contains terms that are specific to certain regions or cultures. This section is divided into the following: African, <The Americas>. Asian, <Early Western World>, European, <The Islamic World>, Oceanic, and <international post-1945 styles and movements>.
  
  
• Arrange records chronologically instead of alphabetically where a clear chronological order exists. See Sort Order below.
  
  
• The preferred parent for a descriptor for a style or period should be with its earliest chronological occurrence or where the descriptor has its broadest meaning. In general, descriptors should be considered as clarified by their hierarchical position but not limited in meaning by it. For example, descriptors for styles that have spread from their region of origin to other regions are typically listed under the region of origin, but they are appropriate to designate the style wherever it has been carried. Georgian appears with British styles because this is where it developed, but end users may use the descriptor to describe the Georgian style in the United States.

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors from the Styles and Periods hierarchy are intended to be used as modifiers and therefore are in adjectival form, where such exists (e.g., Greek). Otherwise they are in noun form to be used as noun modifiers (e.g., Shawnee). In the modern and post-1945 sections, where a descriptor is an adjective derived from the descriptor of an artistic movement, the descriptor of that movement appears as an alternate descriptor (e.g., Cubist, alternate Cubism). End users will create some style names by combining two or more descriptors from this hierarchy (e.g., French + Renaissance). When place names are needed, users will be advised to take them from the Getty Thesaurus of Geographic Names, (e.g., Massachusetts + Italianate + houses). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

3.1.1.6.9

In the Agents facet
In this facet include terms for designations of people, groups of people, and organizations identified by occupation or activity, by physical or mental characteristics, or by social role or condition (e.g., printmakers, landscape architects, corporations, religious orders). Animals will also be included in this facet.

    »People hierarchy

Contains terms for individual people and for groups of people that do not constitute organizations (no proper names, however). Included are people defined by occupations or activities they pursue, such as conservators, by biological or social roles such as parents, and by other characteristics such as adherence to a particular belief (e.g., pacifists) or social or physical condition (e.g., homeless persons). Also included are terms for groups of people defined by activity ( e.g., steel bands) and social, mental, or physical condition (e.g., poor).

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for organized groups of people (e.g., associations, nations) are found in the Organizations hierarchy.

• Terms for branches of learning, areas of specialization, and professional fields are found in the Disciplines hierarchy (e.g., mathematics, zoning law, museology).

• Organization
  The hierarchy is arranged in nine sections:

• <groups of people> (e.g., audiences)
• <people by age group> (e.g., adults)
• <people by family relationship> (e.g., offspring)
• <people by gender> (e.g., women)
• <people by occupation> (e.g., auditors)
• <people by degree of qualification>, (e.g., amateurs)
• <people by activity>, (e.g., collectors)
• <people by ideology, philosophy, or political activity> (e.g., revolutionaries)
• <people by state or condition> (e.g., handicapped).

    »Organizations hierarchy

Contains terms for groups of people organized for a purpose, typically characterized by a more or less constant membership, a body of officers or functionaries, and a set of regulations guiding their activities and conduct. Included are public organizations such as social services, private organizations such as firms, and those that can be either such as charities. Also included are administrative and political organizations such as nations and kingdoms that incorporate a geographic area and general population as well as an organized administration.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for groups of people that do not constitute organizations (e.g., social classes) are found in the People hierarchy.

• Terms for collections of objects brought together and managed by an organization or person (e.g., corporate collections) are found in the Object Groupings and Systems hierarchies.
  
  
• Terms for settlements (e.g., cities) and districts (e.g., school districts) which include an organization but which emphasize a concept of physical space takes precedence are found in the Settlements and Landscapes and the Built Complexes and Districts hierarchies respectively.
  
  
• Terms that are the same for both a building and the organization it houses (e.g., churches, hospitals) are found in the Built Works hierarchy.

• Organization
  The hierarchy is arranged, wherever possible, in generic groups such as <administrative bodies> (e.g., sovereign states), armed forces (e.g., air forces), associations (e.g., trade unions), boards (organizations) (e.g., zoning boards), business enterprises (e.g., corporations), institutions (e.g., social institutions), <services> (e.g., emergency services), and <organizations by location or context> (e.g., international organizations).
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors are plural nouns, with the singular noun as alternate descriptors. End users will combine descriptors with other terms (e.g., democratic + Greek + city-states, librarians' + professional associations). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

    »Living Organisms hierarchy

Contains terms for animals and plants, including their scientific names as well as common names. This hierarchy is still under initial development.

• Organization
  The hierarchy is arranged according to the most recent available taxonomies of animals and plants.
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be the noun form of the scientific name as found in the specified authoritative taxonomies; follow common practice and spell the genus name with an initial capital (e.g., Felis domesticus).
  
  
  • Provide the common name plural form as an alternate descriptor if and only if it is an exact synonym (e.g., domestic cats is a synonym of Felis domesticus, but wolves is not a synonym to either Canis lupus or to the next higher level Canis (because wolves refers to species other than Canis lupus, but Canis includes various canids besides wolves).
    
    
  • If the common term does not match a level in the hierarchy of the scientific taxonomy, make a separate record for the common term, and make hierarchical or associative relationships to the related records with scientific descriptors, as necessary. For the scientific descriptors, make qualifiers for class, subclass, order, family, genus, species, etc., as appropriate and following precedent of the existing hierarchy.

3.1.1.6.10

In the Activities facet
In this facet include terms for areas of endeavor, physical and mental actions, discrete occurrences, systematic sequences of actions, methods employed toward a certain end, and processes occurring in materials or objects. Activities may range from branches of learning and professional fields to specific life events, from mentally executed tasks to processes performed on or with materials and objects, from single physical actions to complex games (e.g., archaeology, engineering, analyzing, contests, exhibitions, running, drawing (image-making), corrosion).

   » Disciplines hierarchy

Contains terms for branches of learning, areas of specialization, and professions and professional specialties.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Material-specific or object-specific activities appear primarily in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy (e.g., metalworking, carpentry) while more general professional activities appear here (e.g., civil engineering).

• Theories relating to disciplines appear in the Associated Concepts hierarchy (e.g., structuralism).
  
  
• Terms for activities conducted in order to accomplish specific purposes appear in the Functions hierarchy (e.g., researching, criticism).

• Organization
  Most descriptors are collocated under one of the traditional fields of study: humanities (e.g., classics), social sciences (e.g., criminology), and sciences (e.g., biology). Disciplines that incorporate aspects of more than one of the above areas are classed under <cross-and interdisciplinary studies> (e.g., forensic medicine).
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors appear as singular nouns, except where common usage dictates the plural (e.g., sciences). Include adjectival forms as alternate descriptors where justified by common usage. End users will combine descriptors and alternate descriptors with other terms (e.g., dance + photography; highway + engineering; Canadian + printmaking). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Functions hierarchy

Contains descriptors for activities that are conducted in order to accomplish specific purposes, as well as methodologies associated with specific areas of endeavor. It includes descriptors for activities relating to the manipulation of data, the collecting of objects, human communication, economics, business, law, and government, as well as other professional activities.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms describing branches of learning, (e.g., history) and areas of specialization, (e.g., law), are found in the Disciplines hierarchy.

• Terms for operations and processes performed on or with objects and materials (e.g., polishing), are found in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy.
  
  
• Terms denoting occasions and happenings of a social, cultural, religious, or personal nature (e.g., exhibitions), are found in the Events hierarchy.

• Organization
  The hierarchy is divided into two main sections: <functions by general context> and <functions by specific context>.

• The first section consists of activities common to a wide range of institutions, professions, and occupations, such as: <analytical functions> (e.g., inspecting), <economic and financial functions> (e.g., bidding), <information handling functions> (e.g., editing), and <organizational functions> (e.g., scheduling).
  
  
• The second section includes activities usually found in a particular context, such as: <educational functions> (e.g., teaching), <governmental functions> (e.g., taxing), <legal functions> (e.g., paroling), and <religious functions> (e.g., baptizing).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors should be in gerund form or in the most commonly used noun form. Adjectival forms are provided as alternate descriptors in some cases as justified by common usage. End users may combine descriptors and alternate descriptors with other terms (e.g., promoting + military personnel; hospital + maintenance; accredited + institutions). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Events hierarchy

Contains descriptors for occurrences, happenings, and occasions of a social, cultural, religious, or personal nature (e.g., anniversaries, concerts, births).

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for activities and methodologies associated with specific contexts (e.g., researching, taxing) are found in the Functions hierarchy.

• Terms relating to actions performed with concrete objects and materials (e.g., polishing), are found in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy.

• Organization
  Descriptors are arranged under broad groupings such as celebrations (e.g., centennials), ceremonies (e.g., baptisms), contests (e.g., tournaments), <entertainment events> (e.g., performances), holidays (e.g., Passover), meetings (e.g., conferences), <natural events> (e.g., floods), <religious seasons> (e.g., Ramadan), and <sales events> (e.g., auctions).
  
  
• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors are plural nouns, unless common usage dictates the singular. Singular forms are provided as alternate descriptors to plural descriptors. End users may combine descriptors and alternate descriptors with other terms (e.g., Micmac + feasts; boat + races; children's + birthdays). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Physical and Mental Activities hierarchy

Contains descriptors for activities ranging from single actions to complex sets of physical and mental pursuits. Mental activities are those performed entirely or primarily with the brain. Physical activities are those performed with other parts of the body or the body as a whole.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for processes performed physically on or with materials or objects (e.g., carving) are found in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy.

• Terms for organizational, administrative, or intellectual activities conducted to achieve specific purposes (e.g., analysis) are found in the Functions hierarchy.
  
  
• Terms denoting occasions, including those when activities in this hierarchy might take place (e.g., sailing, basketball) or are always dependent for their occurrence on a clearly defined set of circumstances (e.g., races) appear in the Events hierarchy.

• Organization
  The hierarchy consists of two sections, <physical activities> and <mental activities>.

• <Physical activities> is itself divided into two sections. Under <physical activities by general context> are collocated terms for actions that can occur in a variety of locations or contexts, (e.g., driving, games). Under <physical activities by specific context> are descriptors for actions that always take place in a particular location (e.g., sailing, basketball) or are always dependent for their occurrence on a set of clearly defined circumstances (e.g., backgammon).
  
  
• <Mental activities> is not subdivided (although it may be in the future).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors appear in either noun or gerund form. They may be used in combination with descriptors from this and other hierarchies (e.g., baseball + bats: automobile + racing). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Processes and Techniques hierarchy

Contains terms for actions and methods performed physically on or with materials and objects, and for processes occurring in materials and objects. Included are types of process or technique pertaining to the production and handling of objects or images (e.g., assembling) or of substances (e.g., mixing) or relevant to the manipulation and processing of specific materials (e.g., soldering). Also included are descriptors for processes that occur in substances, artifacts, or other objects, sometimes initiated intentionally and sometimes occurring spontaneously (e.g., burning).

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for organizational, administrative, or intellectual activities conducted to accomplish specific purposes (e.g., analysis), including descriptors relating to the collecting of objects and various other professional activities (e.g., collections management), are found in the Functions hierarchy.

• Terms that designate branches of learning (e.g., anthropology) are found in the Disciplines hierarchy, while the processes and techniques associated with these fields are contained here.
  
  
• Terms for physical and mental actions not performed to manipulate materials or fabricate objects (e.g., running, meditation) are placed in the Physical and Mental Activities hierarchy.
  
  
• Certain terms that refer to degenerative forces on materials or structures (e.g., stress) are found in the Associated Concepts hierarchy.
  
  
• Terms for certain effects caused by processes occurring in materials and objects (e.g., cracks) appear in the Conditions and Effects hierarchy.

• Organization
  Most records appear under <processes and techniques by specific type>. When possible, they are grouped according to similarities such as type of action performed (e.g., under <additive and joining processes and techniques>) or by the intended function of the activity (e.g., under <restorative processes and techniques>). Under <processes and techniques by material> are term for processes specific to certain materials (e.g., woodworking).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors are in gerund or noun form according to need and usage (e.g., abrasion, tuning, tapestry). Adjectival forms are provided as alternate descriptors where appropriate. End users may use descriptors with other terms (e.g., hand-colored + photographs: Medieval + cloisonné; half-timber + cottages). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

3.1.1.6.11

In the Materials facet
In this facet include terms for physical substances, whether naturally or synthetically derived. These range from specific materials to types of materials designed by their function, such as colorants, and from raw materials to those that have been formed or processed into products that are used in fabricating structures or objects (e.g., iron, clay, adhesive, emulsifier, artificial ivory, millwork).

   » Materials hierarchy

The Materials facet has only one hierarchy, also called Materials.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Material products are included here rather than in the Objects facet because they can be used in the construction of various objects (e.g., plank for floors or walls), and because they are not necessary constituent parts of objects (e.g., shingle is not essential to roofs in the same way as roof ridges or eaves).

• Terms denoting activities performed on or with materials are found in the Processes and Techniques hierarchy (e.g., glassworking).
  
  
• Terms for object types defined by the material from which they are made are found in the Object Genres hierarchy (e.g., metalwork, textiles) while terms for the materials themselves are found here (metal, textile).
  
  
• Terms for tools used in the creation of images (e.g., charcoal sticks, pens) appear in the Tools and Equipment hierarchy, while descriptors for the material of which they are made or which they use are found here (charcoal, ink).
  

• Organization
  The hierarchy is divided into five broad sections.

• The organization of this hierarchy reflects an emphasis on the substance quality of materials rather than their numerous forms and functions, thus the majority of descriptors appear under the heading <materials by composition>. This section is subdivided into inorganic material (e.g., cement), organic material (e.g., coal), and <combination inorganic/organic material> (e.g., soil). Under <materials by form> are terms for common forms in which materials are produced (e.g., foam). Under <materials by function> are descriptors for classes of materials that denote the particular purpose they serve (e.g., adhesive, solvent) as well as broad headings for materials relating to specific activities (e.g., building materials).
  
  
• Other sections are <materials by origin> (e.g., plant material), and <materials by property> (e.g., inert material).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Most descriptors are singular nouns, except where common usage warrants the plural form. Where appropriate, the plural forms of singular descriptors are provided as alternate descriptors. End users may combine descriptors and alternate descriptors with other terms (e.g., stained glass + windows; canvas + sails; archival quality + mounting board; hardwood + shavings). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

3.1.1.6.12

In the Objects facet
The Objects facet is the largest of all the AAT facets. In this facet include terms for discrete tangible or visible things that are inanimate and produced by human endeavor; that is, that are either fabricated or given form by human activity. These range, in physical form, from built works to images and written documents. They range in purpose from utilitarian to the aesthetic. Also included are landscape features that provide the context for the built environment (e.g., paintings, amphorae, facades, cathedrals, Brewster chairs, gardens).

• The Objects facet is divided into several sections, Object Groupings and Systems, Object Genres, Components, Built Environment, Furnishings and Equipment, and Visual and Verbal Communication, most of which are themselves further subdivided into Hierarchies. Those Hierarchies are discussed below.

   » Object Groupings and Systems hierarchy

Contains descriptors that in their singular form denote a number of artifacts that are related but discrete and are to be treated as a unit or an assembly of equipment and activities intended to perform a specific function.

• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for groupings or systems that are not object-based are found in other hierarchies, such as in the Organizations hierarchy, and under <groups of people> in the People hierarchy.
  
  
• Organization
  The hierarchy is divided into three parts.

• Included under <object groupings by general context> are terms that may pertain either to a variety of object types (e.g., editions), or to groupings that specifically include various object types (e.g., layettes).
  
  
• Under <object groupings by specific context> descriptors appear in sections paralleling the other hierarchies of the Objects facet (e.g., under <furnishings groupings>, <costume groupings>).
  
  
• Under systems are the sections <systems by function>, containing descriptors for systems designated by their purpose (e.g., communication systems), and <systems by location or context>, containing descriptors for systems designated by their place of use (e.g., building systems).

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors are plural nouns, with the singular form provided as an alternate descriptor where appropriate. End users may use descriptors with other terms (e.g., postcard + collections: railroad + personnel). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Object Genres hierarchy

Contains terms that are common to various contexts and may apply to more than one of the other hierarchies in the Objects facet. For example, the descriptor reproductions, in the Object Genres hierarchy, may be applied to many object types, from doorknobs (which is in the Components hierarchy) to altarpieces (which appears in the Visual Works hierarchy).

• Also included are descriptors for broad classes of objects or images to which specific object types, which are found in other hierarchies, may or may not belong depending on the particular context. For example, photographs (in Visual Works) can be variously considered to be documents or works of art (terms that appear here), depending on the circumstances; or cups (in the Containers hierarchy) can be variously considered as antiques, art objects, or collectibles (terms that appear here), again depending on the circumstances.
  
  
• In addition, included here are terms that refer to an object by its form, and that form is so generic that it does not fall into the more specific scope of any other hierarchy in the Objects facet, such as chains.
  
  
• Regarding other Hierarchies
  Terms for more specific object types, including structures, images, and texts (e.g., chairs, churches, portraits, transcripts), appear in other hierarchies of the Objects facet.

• Terms for constituent parts of other objects (e.g., handles) are found in the Components hierarchy.

• Terms for items used as materials to form structures, images, or other objects (e.g. brick) are found in the Materials hierarchy.

• Organization
  Under <object genres> are terms for object types not specific to another hierarchy or the Objects facet. These include, under <object genres by cultural or intellectual valuation>, terms for broad classes of objects that will be applied to specific objects differently in different contexts, according to cultural values or intellectual judgments (e.g., works of art).

• Under <originals and derivative objects> are terms that refer to objects or works on the basis of whether or not they derive from other objects or works (e.g., forgeries).
  
  
• Under <object genres by form> are terms that identify a generic object type by aspects of its physical form or arrangement appear (e.g., fragments).
  
  
• Under <object genres by function> are terms that identify a class of objects by how they are used are (e.g., devotional objects).
  
  
• Under <object genres by location, context or origin> are terms that emphasize where that class of objects is or was found or used (e.g., grave goods).
  
  
• Under <object genres by material> are terms that identify a class of objects by what the objects are made from (e.g., glassware).
  
  
• Under <object genres by technique> are terms that denote a class of objects by the technique used to produce them appear (e.g., castings).
  
  
• Under <object genres by maker's career stage> are terms that identify a class of objects by the stage of the maker's career at which they were made are (e.g., early works).
  

• Descriptor Form and Use
  Descriptors are plural nouns with the singular form provided as an alternate descriptor where appropriate. Descriptors may be used in combination with other terms (e.g., Sumerian + votive offerings; furniture + reproductions; prototype + houses). For further discussion regarding terms, see 3.3 Terms.

   » Components hierarchy

Contains descriptors for the constituent parts of objects, including structures, images, and texts. In those