Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XIX

Masterpiece or Masterful Deception? B efore making a purchase, a prospective buyer should seek an acknowledged expert at TK Asian Antiquities or other archaeometrists who understand the necessity of applying a multi-disciplinary approach to authenticating antiquities as well as a rming their historical relevance and reinforcing their value. ese critical examinations can thwart forgers or misrepresentation, whether of a vessel, sculpture or piece of jewelry. ey also add to the body of knowledge about antiquities and the ancient cultures associated with these objects. Further, and perhaps most importantly, hard science can grant collectors and institutions peace of mind. At circa 5cm long and circa 133 grams in weight, this delightfuly engaging miniature gold ram is undergoing testing now. Preliminary X-ray uorescence and surface examinations have been completed with positive results. Art history research is under way to identify the culture and narrow the period of manufacture, but the initial impression is of Greco-Persian design. A sample has been submitted to e University of Bern, Switzerland & Curt-Englehorn- Zentrum Archaeometric in Manheim, Germany for Uranium, orium-Helium testing. is little treasure seems unique in that something so small and exceptionally heavy seemingly has no utilitarian purpose. at is, it is unlikely to be a decoration or object of rank or personal adornment; perhaps this miniature was a way of transporting gold in antiquiquity in an appealing form. Or was it art for art's sake? By late summer or early fall TK should receive a rmation as to the authenticity of this exquisite historical curiosity. Galileo would have approved; TK Asian Antiquities is making antiquities into measurable art. 3 0 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I