Expert: Leisha Hiester - 7/22/2009

Question
Several years ago, while at the new airport in fort myers florida, I purchased a small clay (I think)jar with a 5 in base, 5 inch hieght, small opening on top.  In addition the newly opened gift shop was also selling a set of five figurines, very primitive Aztecy looking figures, a women holding a small child, with some type of headress looking thing - it is 3plus inches, broken at the hip.  Four smaller figures, all broken in spots, some male and female.  Appear carved and may be stone.  When I inquired about the odd nature of such a sale in a gift store - the clerk told me that they had been unearthed during the excavation of the airlport site. Any thoughts about how to authenticate these or what they might be. Thanks

Answer
Dear Kathy,
Do you have any photos you can send?
Do you recall the gift store? If it's not still there, try the airport customer service and inquire as to who had the contract to build the airport. If you can find the contractor, they may be able to verify that they were actually dug up during construction. Even a letter to that affect on their letterhead will help their value.

Are there any markings at all on them? What color is the clay? These are all identifying characteristics.

Hope this helps and glad to help any further if I can.

Leisha