What are artifacts?
In a general sense, artifacts are any physical item or object made or modified by a person that affirms the existence of a culture or civilization. Some examples might include items from ancient civilizations, like artifacts from the Ancient Egyptians, or items from more recent cultures like pottery items from the 1940’s. Artifacts are usually made of material such as stone, clay, shell, ivory, bone, metal, wood, or glass, and can range in size from small to large. Artifacts are usually found during excavation or exploration, and occasionally show up through other means like donations or the odd antique shop.
Artifacts are generally classified according to their region of origin. For example, artifacts from Ancient Egypt are known as “Egyptian Artifacts”, while stray artifacts from the Late Middle Ages might be known as “Medieval Artifacts”. Artifacts can also be classified according to their form, such as pottery, tools, sculpture, or jewelry. These various classifications can be a helpful way of grouping artifacts, as each type of artifact can inform us about the civilization or culture it is derived from.
History of Collecting Artifacts
Artifact collecting, or “artifact-hunting” as it is sometimes referred to, has been a popular activity since the 19th century. More recently, certain artifacts have been greatly sought after by collectors looking to discover new insights into the past. Collectors of artifacts are often passionate individuals who have a deep interest in history and archaeology, as well as in scientific and cultural exploration.
The motivations for collecting artifacts usually revolve around a desire to explore the past and gain some insight into the culture of a particular region or era. With many areas of the world now having well-structured laws in place to protect their cultural heritage, many would-be artifact-hunters have turned to collecting existing artifacts that are already on the market. This has subsequently increased the value of certain artifacts that were once thought to be insignificant.
Many countries have laws in place to prevent the illegal excavation or taking of cultural artifacts. These laws make it much more difficult to legally source antique artifacts, as it means having to obtain the proper permits. There are also various organizations that oversee the transfer of artifacts, such as the International Council of Museums (ICOM) which is a non-governmental international organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of cultural property.
Artifact Collecting Movement
Over the past few decades, the popularity of artifact collecting has grown tremendously. With so many amazing pieces of history being unearthed and archived, it is no surprise that more and more people are drawn to the intrigue of artifact collecting. With advances in technology and communication, it is now easier than ever to gain access to the latest artifacts on the market.
In recent years, the internet has served as a powerful platform enabling collectors from around the world to connect and share their knowledge. There are many online forums and websites that offer a wealth of information on a range of topics from artifact collecting to professional advice and tips on caring for artifacts.
Types of Artifacts to Collect
With so many different types of artifacts out there, it can be difficult to know where to start and what type of artifacts to collect. Different collectors prefer to focus on specific types of artifacts, such as those from a particular region or era, while others may be interested in multiple types.
The following are some suggestions on different types of artifacts collectors may want to consider:
• Ancient Artifacts: Antique artifacts from civilizations such as Ancient Egypt and Greece, including pottery, sculpture, and jewelry
• Military Artifacts: Items from different wars and battles, including uniforms, weapons, and flags
• Prehistoric Artifacts: Items from prehistoric cultures, such as stone tools, bone jewelry and carvings
• Maritime Artifacts: Artifacts from naval warships and other vessels, including tools, manuscripts, and navigation instruments
• Mythical Artifacts: Items related to myths, legends or folklore, such as charms, talismans, and magical potions
• Religious Artifacts: Items related to religion, including sacred texts, scrolls, ornaments, and ceremonial artifacts
Importance of Displaying Artifacts
An important part of artifact collecting is finding a way to display the pieces in an aesthetically pleasing way. Displaying artifacts goes beyond just arranging them in a specific order or on various shelves. It is about creating an environment that captures the essence of the pieces and the culture that they represent.
One of the most popular ways of displaying artifacts is to create a physical or virtual collection. Physical collections allow collectors to arrange their pieces on shelves, in boxes, or in display cases where they can admire them from all angles. A virtual collection, often known as a “museum”, allows for the creation of an interactive museum experience where visitors explore the collection digitally.
Caring for Artifacts
When collecting artifacts, it is essential to pay proper attention to the care of the artifacts. Artifacts are made of materials that can be impacted by many different environmental factors, and it is important to be aware of how these factors may affect the condition of the pieces.
The following are some tips on caring for artifacts:
• Store artifacts in a cool, dry environment
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure
• Handle artifacts with clean hands and avoid using products like grease or oils
• Regularly inspect artifacts for any damage or deterioration
• Seek advice of a professional in regards to any cleaning and preservation
• Utilize specialized cases and display pieces where appropriate
Artifacts serve as physical reminders of our past and provide a contextual backdrop to the present day. As such, the importance of artifact collecting is greater than ever before, as collectors strive to preserve and protect these pieces of history. From Ancient Egypt to more contemporary civilizations, artifacts have a lot to offer, and the hobby of collecting is becoming increasingly popular among those looking for more than just a reminder of the past. When it comes to caring for, displaying, and collecting artifacts, it is essential to follow proper practices to ensure the pieces remain secure and well-preserved for many years to come.
