Ancient Glass

Physical identification

Vessels, beads, cosmetic containers and fragments. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.

Key cautions

• Iridescence can be genuine weathering or artificially induced.
• Cracks and unstable surfaces require careful support.
• Condition descriptions should distinguish ancient weathering from modern damage.

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.