Many types of objects found in museum collections are routinely evaluated as
part of a variety of curatorial functions.  Objects are purchased for
acquisition.  They are evaluated for donor's tax and charitable donation
receipts.  Loans for exhibition are evaluated for insurance purposes.
 
While the sale and evaluation of archaeological materials was common earlier
in the history of the profession, in the past 30 years archaeologists have
eschewed the evaluation of archaeological materials.  Thus, archaeological
materials are often treated differently in museums.  While they are
acquired, exhibited, lent, etc. they are often either (a) not evaluated or
(b) given a value of 'NCV" - no commercial value.
 
This, of course, ignores the massive trade in archaeological materials that
goes on worldwide.  Trade with which some museums are associated in
not-very-distant-ways.
 
Problems may arise if evaluations are required, such as under some
legislation.  For example, monetary evaluation of the object is inherent in
the process of preventing  export under the Canadian Cultural Property
Import and Export Review Act.
 
The evaluation of artifacts is considered unethical by many archaeologists
as it is seen to  promote of the looting of sites.   This position was
adopted by the Canadian Archaeology Association in the Loy Resolution (since
rescinded), and is currently held by the Society for American Archaeology
(1993:3).
 
The collection policies of many archaeological museums specifically prohibit
the purchase of archaeological materials.  In addition, many museums will
not evaluate donated collections of archaeological materials for tax
purposes.
 
In addition, there are significant issues raised by descendent peoples -
differing evaluations based on sacredness, differing historical importance,
NAGPRA, etc. etc..
 
What policies concerning the evaluation of archaeological materials are in
place in your institution?  your professional association?  your First Nation?
 
I would be very interested in receiving comments on these issues, or
starting another thread.  Please reply either to me directly or to the list.
 
Thank you in advance!
 
___________________________________________________________________
 
Barbara J. Winter
Curator, Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
Department of Archaeology
Simon Fraser University
Canada  V5A 1S6
tel: (604) 291-3325
fax: (604) 291-5666
email:  [log in to unmask]
___________________________________________________________________