An example application as suggested by @SamiNorling: a graphical view of an object's lifetime, presented as a timeline or other visual metaphor that allows for tracing out. At key moments (exhibitions, sales, etc.) it would be possible to leave the timeline currently being traced and move to that of another object (perhaps from an exhibition in which both were included) or a person (someone who made or sold or bought the object or in some other way interacted with it).