Ancient Americas Regional

Physical identification

Regional North, Central and South American archaeological material outside major market labels. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.

Key cautions

• Indigenous cultural heritage and burial law may apply.
• Human remains and sacred objects are not ordinary collectibles.
• Consult communities and authorities where appropriate.

Provenance and lawful movement

Determine likely source country or countries, the date the object left, applicable patrimony laws, export-certificate requirements and destination-country import restrictions.

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.