About Our Antiques
Every antique and tribal artefact we sell is described honestly, based on what the piece itself shows. Here is where our pieces come from and how we judge their age.
Where our pieces come from
Our antiques have come to us over many years through collectors, auctions and our own private collection. Many were made in remote villages and communities, but some were acquired directly at source. Like most tribal art and antiques, the majority have no formal paperwork, having passed through families, collectors and dealers over decades.
Pieces bought abroad
Some pieces have been bought overseas. Many countries strictly control the export of cultural objects, and in several, items over 100 years old cannot legally be exported. Pieces we have bought abroad were exported in line with local laws, which in many cases means they are under 100 years old.
How we describe age
We describe what we can honestly see: wear, patina, construction, materials and condition. We avoid firm dates unless we are confident in them. Where a piece may be decorative rather than old, we say so.
To learn what we look for, read our Journal guide, How to Recognise the Age of an Antique.
Questions
If you would like to know more about any item, please get in touch. We are always happy to share everything we know about a piece.