Pre-Columbian Americas

Physical identification

Ancient objects from Mesoamerica, Central America, the Andes and other American cultures. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.

Key cautions

• Many source countries vest ownership in the state.
• Pottery, textiles and stone suffered extensive illicit excavation.
• National and bilateral restrictions require research.

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.