Collecting Cautiously

One of the most important things for any collector, whether they are new or experienced, is to make sure the piece they are buying is in fact authentic, as a majority of pieces that are sold on sites like Ebay are fakes. Something that everyone should do when buying any piece is to do a simple reverse image search. As performing a reverse image search on the artifact's images can help identify if the piece appears in multiple listings or has been associated with known forgeries, look for any similar indentations, scuff marks, chips, cracks etc. Tools like Google Image search and “Tineye” can assist in this process. If you find the same image appearing in numerous places, it’s a very strong indicator that the piece might be a fake. Along with this one should follow at least some of the guidelines I’ve listed below.

Also, If you are someone who is new in collecting ancient art or looking for other interesting pieces not found on my website, then I would urge you to visit ADA accredited member Dr. Lipkin’s site. He also has a very detailed discussion board talking about how to better identify fakes and forgeries. Please visit him here

1. Research and Educate Yourself

Before delving into the world of ancient art, invest time in educating yourself about the specific types of artifacts you're interested in. Understanding the historical context, common materials, and typical craftsmanship of the period can help you identify inconsistencies and red flags.

2. Verify Provenance

A piece's provenance, or history of ownership, is extremely crucial in establishing its authenticity. A reputable seller should provide detailed documentation tracing the artifact's origins and ownership history. Provenance records can include previous owners, auction houses, and galleries that have handled the piece. Be wary of artifacts with unclear or incomplete provenance, as these are often signs of dubious authenticity.

3. Buy from Reputable Dealers

Purchasing from well-known and reputable dealers significantly reduces the risk of buying fakes. Established dealers have reputations to uphold and are more likely to adhere to ethical practices. Look for dealers who are members of professional organizations, such as the International Association of Dealers in Ancient Art (IADAA) or the Antiquities Dealers' Association (ADA)

4. Buy from Reputable Auction Houses

When buying from auction houses, ensure they have a strong reputation for authenticity and integrity. Reputable auction houses, such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Bonham’s, etc. have stringent vetting processes and are less likely to deal in forgeries. However, it's still essential to do your own due diligence. Research the auction house’s history, read reviews, and please seek recommendations from experienced collectors before buying from any auction house.

5. Be Wary of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True

While it’s tempting to jump at a bargain, remember that if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic ancient artifacts are rare and valuable, and their prices usually, typically reflect this. Extremely low prices can indicate forgeries or illegally obtained items. Certain items in which are common can fetch lower prices, but ensure that this object isn’t lower then the average cost for these items.

6. Check for Scientific Analysis

For certain high-value items, scientific analysis can provide conclusive evidence of authenticity. Techniques such as radiocarbon dating, thermoluminescence testing, and X-ray fluorescence can determine the age and composition of materials. Some reputable dealers often provide such test results to substantiate their claims.

7. Seek Expert Opinions

And in the worst case scenarios, if one is still unsure, then one should consider seeking out an experts opinion. Consulting with independent experts or appraisers can provide additional assurance of an artifact's authenticity. These professionals can offer unbiased opinions and may identify issues that aren't immediately apparent to the untrained eye. Ensure that the experts you consult have a solid reputation and experience in the field of ancient art.

8. Check for Documentation and Published Sources

If a piece has been documented in official sources or published in scholarly articles or catalogs, it adds a significant layer of credibility. Such documentation can provide detailed information about the artifact's history and previous owners, further verifying its authenticity.

9. Maintain Diligence Throughout the Process

Buying Ancient Art & Antiquities is not a process to rush. Take your time to verify every detail, ask questions, and seek multiple opinions. Diligence is your best defense against fakes and frauds.

By following these steps, one can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a fake artifact and ensure that your investment is both genuine and valuable. Ancient art is a treasure trove of history and culture, and with careful consideration, you can become a custodian of these remarkable pieces of our shared ancient and often forgotten heritage.