Ancient artifacts are not ordinary secondhand goods. Their archaeological context, lawful movement, ownership history and physical stability can be more important than immediate market appeal.
1. Record exact wording
Record exact wording should be documented against the exact physical object, likely source jurisdiction, ownership timeline and conservation condition. Record uncertainty rather than replacing it with a confident market phrase.
2. Identify names and places
Identify names and places should be documented against the exact physical object, likely source jurisdiction, ownership timeline and conservation condition. Record uncertainty rather than replacing it with a confident market phrase.
3. Separate memory from record
Separate memory from record should be documented against the exact physical object, likely source jurisdiction, ownership timeline and conservation condition. Record uncertainty rather than replacing it with a confident market phrase.
4. Search travel and estate papers
Search travel and estate papers should be documented against the exact physical object, likely source jurisdiction, ownership timeline and conservation condition. Record uncertainty rather than replacing it with a confident market phrase.