Everyday Domestic Objects

Physical identification

Spindle whorls, weights, utensils, gaming pieces and household artifacts. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.

Key cautions

• Low price does not eliminate provenance duties.
• Everyday objects can be archaeologically important.
• Bulk small finds may indicate undocumented site removal.

Provenance and lawful movement

Ask when the object first appeared outside the ground, who owned it, where it was located, how it left its likely source country and whether the seller warrants good title in writing.

Authenticity and conservation

Condition and authenticity can be intertwined. Artificial deposits, modern joins and restored surfaces may disguise manufacture. No single photograph, certificate or test proves the complete history of an object.