ICOM Red Lists

Why this matters

Illustrated categories of cultural objects vulnerable to illicit trafficking. A responsible collector asks whether the object is authentic, whether it left its source jurisdiction lawfully, whether it entered the destination lawfully and whether the seller has good title.

Core checks

• Red Lists are not lists of specific stolen objects.
• They identify at-risk categories.
• Use them for heightened due diligence.

Document the analysis

Retain searches, correspondence, legal references, permits, translations, invoices, photographs, catalog entries and warranties. Record the date each online system was checked.

When professional help is justified

Use qualified counsel and customs specialists for high-value, recently surfaced, conflict-zone, funerary, Indigenous, architectural or nationally protected material.

Official resources

• ICOM Red Lists
• ICOM database