Imagine wearing a pair of earrings or a bracelet made in ancient Egypt or a ring made during the Viking era? These and other objects, such as glass and pottery are still turning up at auctions that specialize in antiquities. They often cost less than mass produced contemporary items. $200 for a ring or earrings and a glass vase are among the offerings at an upcoming auction at Artemis Auction Gallery, Erie, Colorado, who specialize in antiquities. They also guarantee the authenticity of the items.
Collectors have always been fascinated by antiquities. In 15th century Florence, Italy, interest was so great that Michelangelo made his first sale with a statue he had made “in the manner of a” Roman antique.
CLUES: Selling antiquities can be a tricky business and full of fakes and reproductions. Faking was going on by the time Napoleon made his expeditions to the Nile. They included copies and variations of Egyptian bronze statuettes made in the 17th and 18th centuries. By the late 19th century British excavations stirred the interests of tourists and collectors alike. The result was hundreds of faked small artifacts, usually figures and pottery.Especially popular were amulets of Isis and Ra in blue faience. Would you know if they really are?

If you yearn to own a piece of ancient history, don’t let all of these tales from the crypt discourage you. If the seller attests to their authenticity, take a chance, but research before you do. After all scientific tests now uncover the true facts and the sellers should have documents proving these tests were made.
PHOTO CAPTION: (1) Roman glass bracelet. (2) Roman glass bowl. PHOTO CREDIT: Artemis Gallery, Erie, Colorado
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