ABSTRACT
In this chapter, Drs. Spar and Catanzariti point out that smuggling has existed for many millennia and was documented on cuneiform tablets. They provide an overview of the most common items currently being smuggled and targeted in the antiquities market and point out how the trafficking of fakes has been fueling the sale of ancient Near Eastern objects. Specific attention is given to ancient Near Eastern tablets and selected types of seals. A summary of these objects’ historical importance and their most typical characteristics is presented, as well as methods to distinguish originals from forged artifacts. With this contribution, the authors aim to emphasize the important role that subject matter specialists play in supporting law enforcement in the fight against ancient Near Eastern antiquities trafficking.
