The Value and Legalities of Antique Ivory

Antique ivory has long been a subject of both fascination and controversy due to its rich historical significance and economic value. However, the legal landscape surrounding antique ivory is complex and evolving. This article explores the current value of carved ivory, the legalities involved, and provides guidance on how one can legally buy, sell, or own antique ivory.

Value of Antique Carved Ivory

Antique carved ivory, particularly pieces that are finely crafted and well-preserved, can be exceedingly valuable. The beauty and rarity of such items make them prized collectors' objects. However, the advent of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has significantly impacted the market for ivory, leading to a reduction in value for new or illegally sourced ivory.

Some high-quality, antique carved ivory pieces can still fetch substantial sums at auctions and in the collector's market. These pieces are often from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when ivory was still considered a common luxury material.

Legalities and Restrictions

The legal purchase, sale, and ownership of antique ivory are heavily regulated by international and national laws. These regulations vary significantly depending on the country and the age of the ivory.

Legal Ownership and Trade: The key factor in determining whether antique ivory is legal to own or sell is whether it was produced before or after certain international treaties and regulations came into effect. For example:

Pre-1947 Ivory: Ivory that is more than 75 years old and has been owned within a country since before the international ivory trade was regulated, is typically legal to own and sell. In the UK, for instance, ivory that is over 100 years old is generally considered legal, as long as the correct paperwork is in place. This paperwork, known as CITES documents, can be obtained from a customs department or agent specializing in CITES compliance. Newer Ivory: For ivory that is younger than 75 years, the situation is more complex. It is generally illegal to own or trade unless the ivory is from a particular region and bought within the last 20 years or so. For instance, in the UK, due to a recent law, it is illegal to own or sell ivory from elephants that have died in the last 100 years, with some exemptions for cultural or artistic artifacts.

Legislative Action: Some countries, like the UK, have recently implemented stricter laws regarding the ownership and sale of ivory. These laws were passed without thorough consultations with experts and stakeholders in the collectibles and cultural industries. These measures can significantly restrict the market and impact the value of certain ivory pieces, especially those crafted by traditional artists.

For example, a bill was recently passed in the UK that makes it illegal to sell certain items made of ivory, such as netsuke, without impeccable documentation. These objets d'art, which are intricate Japanese carvings, are often less than 100 years old, and the new law imposes a significant burden on owners and sellers.

Conclusion

The value and legal status of antique ivory are intertwined with a complex web of international regulations and local laws. While some antique ivory remains valuable and legally tradeable, others are subject to strict restrictions that can severely impact their market value.

For individuals interested in collecting or dealing with antique ivory, it is crucial to understand the legal implications and obtain the necessary documentation to ensure compliance. Consulting with experts in the field of antique ivory, such as customs agents or knowledgeable dealers, can provide valuable guidance on navigating the legal landscape.

As the legal landscape continues to evolve, collectors and dealers must stay informed to avoid unintentional violations and ensure the integrity of the antique ivory market.

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