Physical identification
Egyptian pottery, amulets, shabtis, funerary material, sculpture and written objects. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.
Key cautions
- Funerary and archaeological objects are especially sensitive.
- Scarabs, faience and shabtis are widely reproduced.
- Export and ownership history should be documented.
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.
Five research views
Responsible acquisition: Record uncertainty and do not buy when lawful title or export history remains materially unresolved.