Physical identification
Mesopotamian, Levantine, Anatolian and Iranian tablets, seals, metalwork and figurines. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.
Key cautions
- Conflict and recent looting create high risk.
- Tablets and seals are frequently forged.
- Country-specific restrictions may overlap.
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.