Expert: John J. Shea - 12/10/2008

Question
Greetings!  Okay...I feel a bit foolish for even asking this question, but here it goes.  I have been running across these fascinating "artifacts" on ebay...namely these "ancient oil lamps" supposedly from the Holy Land area from around 100-400 AD.  Anyway, there are quite a few of them, and I have become fascinated with them.  I didn't think it were possible that such things would be so numerous, and so inexpensive (approximately 30$).  I thought such items would only be found in a museum.  There are other things as well...jugs, etc.  So, my question for you is, is it possible that such items are authentic, and if so, is there a way that I can determine if they are indeed authentic?  If it is possible, why are there so many of them available, and so inexpensive?  I read your instructions and I hope this does not violate your policy.  Thanks so much...I appreciate you!

Answer
If they are intact, they are almost certainly fakes.  It is simple enough to make a cast based on a real original one and then to mass produce them.  The cost of making such lamps is relatively low, and the benefits high.  If you are going to buy such things, you are best doing so from an honest broker (who sells them as replicas) and/or from an institution that puts their profits to good use.
Cheers,
John Shea