provenance

noun

prov·​e·​nance ˈpräv-nən(t)s 

ˈprä-və-ˌnän(t)s

1

: origin, source

2

: the history of ownership of a valued object or work of art or literature

Examples of provenance in a Sentence

Has anyone traced the provenances of these paintings?

The artifact is of unknown provenance.

Recent Examples on the Web

One reason the painting was so highly sought after was its provenance. —Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 14 May 2026

The film provides further complexity by not making Bear a sympathetic victim but rather complicit by initially enjoying Nikki’s affections despite their artificial provenance. —Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 11 May 2026

The biggest risks are around provenance, ownership structure, storage, insurance and unrealistic return expectations. —Hugh Leask, CNBC, 9 May 2026

The museum has engaged a team of provenance researchers to look into the history of the unclaimed artworks, with a view to ultimately being able to restore some of them to their rightful owners. —Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 8 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from provenir to come forth, originate, from Latin provenire, from pro- forth + venire to come — more at pro-, come

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined at sense 1