Ask ADAM: The Expert Advice
Q&A
How
do I have an Antique Map authenticated?:
I
have ordered a 400 year old map from France. How would I
go about getting this antique map authenticated by a local
expert in cartography? I live in Frederick. Thank you. Ms.
Wilson
FROM
JOHN COLSON OF Historic Frames:
Dear
Ms. Wilson:
My own area is in American paper, so the individuals I list
below are fellow members of the American Institute for Conservation,
in the D.C. area, and generally in museum or archival setting.
If they cannot be of direct assistance, they may be able
to direct you to another of their sources. (You might mention
that an AIC member recommended them to you.) The two commercial
referrals are a bit more distant; I have dealt with both
and found them reputable and reliable.
A
caveat: authentication can be an expensive process depending
on the level of assurance you want. It can range from simply
a visual inspection with only a minor examination of the
details all the way to a complete analysis of paper, ink,
etc. You should feel free to discuss your needs with the
individual as well as their fee structure. I haven't provided
phone numbers since I don't know if they are for home or
work.
1) Linda Blaser - blaser@folger.edu
2) Jayne Girod Holt - holt.jayne@nmnh.si.edu
3) Doris Hamburg - doris.hamburg@nara.gov
4) Gail Harriman - gail.harriman@arch2.nara.gov
5) Susan Lee-Bechtold - sue.bechtold@arch2.nara.gov
6) Kathy Ludwig - kathy.ludwig@arch2.nara.gov
7) Diane van der Reyden - vanderreydend@scmre.si.edu
Two
map dealers who may be able to help are:
1) The Prime Meridian, Danville, Virginia Phone: 434.724.1106;
website: theprimemeridian.com,
e-mail: jsk@gamewood.net
2) Heritage Map Museum, Lititz, Pennsylvania Phone: 717.626.5002;
website: carto.com, e-mail:
heritage@carto.com.
Despite the name, they are a commercial sales business.
They do consulting and appraisal work.
I would also recommend a call to the Smithsonian Map collection
as another local resource worth trying.
I
hope this helps you get started on your quest.
Cordially,
John Colson
Historic Frames
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