Authentication Services

We provide independent, research‑driven authentication services for Pre‑Columbian artworks, including ceramics, stone sculptures, and terracottas from the major cultural regions of Mesoamerica and the Andes. Our assessments combine connoisseurship with documentary research and, when requested, laboratory testing through trusted partners.

What clients receive

  • A written scholarly opinion on authorship, cultural attribution, and period (with confidence levels)

  • Condition observations and notes on restoration or modern interventions

  • Optional printed, signed COA with security features (tamper‑evident seal, watermark) for an extra fee.

Scope of Expertise

  • Cultures & Regions: Olmec, Maya, Teotihuacan, Aztec/Mexica, West Mexico (Colima, Jalisco, Nayarit), Moche, Nazca, Wari, Chavín, Tiwanaku, Chimú, Inca, and related traditions.

  • Materials: Ceramic and stone..

  • Periods: Formative through Late Horizon (ca. 1500 BCE – 16th c. CE).

If your object falls outside this scope, we can refer you to qualified specialists.

Our Methodology

  1. Intake & Triage
    Review of images, measurements, and provenance data to determine suitability for formal assessment.

  2. Comparative Analysis
    Stylistic and iconographic study against reference collections, excavation reports, and catalogues raisonnés.

  3. Technical Review
    Visual and microscopic inspection for tool marks, surface accretions, weathering, restoration, and pigments. Where appropriate, non‑destructive and/or minimally destructive testing via partner labs (e.g., TL dating for low‑fired ceramics, radiocarbon for organics, metallurgical analysis).

  4. Opinion & Reporting
    Written findings with attribution, period, confidence statement, and supporting images. COA issued for works deemed authentic or of the period (fee applies).

Deliverables

  • Authentication Report (PDF): 5–15 pages typically; includes images, comparanda, and references.

  • Certificate of Authenticity: Signed, with unique Verification ID and QR code.

  • Verification Page: Clients and prospective buyers can confirm authenticity by entering the Verification ID on our website (see below).

  • Add‑ons: Printed report set; lab testing reports appended as annexes.

Service Levels

  • Photo‑Based Preliminary Opinion
    A written, non‑final opinion based solely on client‑submitted media. Best for initial screening. $100

  • In‑Person Examination
    Full inspection, piece(s) have to be shipped to us. Recommended for definitive opinions and COA issuance. 

  • Scientific Testing Coordination
    We manage chain‑of‑custody and liaise with accredited labs. Testing is billed at cost plus coordination fee.

Turnaround depends on complexity and testing; rush service may be available when feasible.

How to Submit an Object

Use the Authentication Request Form on this page. Please be ready to provide:

  • Ownership name and contact details

  • Object title/description, culture/region (if known)

  • Provenance summary (acquisition date, prior owners, invoices, publications)

  • Dimensions, weight, and materials (if known)

  • Images: overall views, profiles, base, close‑ups of surfaces/tooling, any labels or inscriptions

  • Any prior opinions or lab reports

After review, we will confirm scope, fees, and next steps. For in‑person exams, we will provide handling and appointment guidelines.

Fees

Fees are quoted per object based on material, complexity, documentation, and whether scientific testing is required. Multiple‑object and institutional rates are available. A non‑refundable assessment retainer may apply at intake.

To receive a quote, submit the request form or contact us at info@minerva-gallery.com


Ethical & Legal Compliance

We are committed to responsible stewardship of cultural heritage.

  • 1970 UNESCO Convention: We assess compliance with the spirit of the Convention and related national laws.

  • U.S. Cultural Property Law: We consider CPAC import restrictions and bilateral agreements where applicable.

  • Provenance & Due Diligence: We require good‑faith evidence of lawful ownership and import/export history when available.

  • Chain of Custody: We maintain secure handling protocols; testing shipments use insured, trackable methods.

Terms & Disclaimers

  • Nature of Opinion: Unless expressly stated otherwise, our authentication is a scholarly opinion based on available evidence at the time of assessment and is not a legal determination or guarantee of market value.

  • Limitations: Opinions may be revised if new information emerges (e.g., publications, test results). We are not responsible for concealed conditions or information withheld by the client.

  • Liability: Our liability is limited to the amount of fees paid for the specific assessment. We are not liable for consequential or incidental losses.

  • Client Warranties: Client represents lawful ownership or authority to submit the object and agrees to indemnify us against claims arising from misrepresentation of title or provenance.

  • Jurisdiction: Services are governed by the laws of Florida/Highlands county; venue as specified in our full Terms & Conditions.

  • Export/Import: We do not advise on customs/export licensing; clients are responsible for compliance with applicable laws.

Full Terms & Conditions available at checkout and upon request.

FAQs

Can you authenticate from photos only?
We can offer preliminary, non‑final opinions from high‑quality images. Definitive opinions generally require in‑person examination and, for some materials, scientific testing. We can do pictures only assessment for $100.

Do you authenticate artifacts from active or recent excavations?
No. We do not engage with objects lacking clear legal provenance or that may contravene cultural property protections.

Will you value or appraise the object?
Valuation is a separate service. Upon request, we can refer you to qualified appraisers.

What if an object is determined to be modern or heavily restored?
We will document our findings candidly and may recommend conservation or educational display labeling when appropriate.