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Hi. I have two very old metal items (a Buddha and a vase) from Cambodia or Vietnam which I received from my father. He bought them in Thailand about 15 years or more ago. I went to a private appraiser and confirmed that the vase is authentic. I want to keep both of them. One is moderately valuable and the other is considerable expensive.

The appraiser of the vase told me that it is illegal to own them and advised me to get rid of them. He can help. So, he scared me enough that I don't display them.

Is this true? I can not own them? I don't 100% trust the appraiser.

If I go back to my home in South America, can I bring them? (I am in the US now).

I know that advice here is not binding but, I just want to know the general law

Are 3 levels illegality (for items other than blood diamonds, animal parts):

1) Stealing/looting
2) Receiving stolen/looted goods
3) Selling or exporting stolen/looted goods

All are regulated by local laws and international law.

If you have items looted from known protected site, is even more illegal to sell.

Try representative of internationally known auction house for second opinion.

If your items from Burma/Myanmar could be illegal to transport across international boundary from US, see US Commerce Dept. regulations.

Good luck,
Cal

Hi Sarah,

It is forbidden to export antiques from those countries, specially Buddha images.
But once they are out of Vietnam/Cambodia, there are no problems to own them.
Your appraiser is trying to make a few $$$ on the sale of your items.

Have a nice day, and don't worry, it is legal to own them.

Just check the law of the South American country you will go as far as Asian antiques import is concerned. As they are pre owned,, should not be a problem either.

Pierre

Thank you for your help. When I return home I will take them from under my bed. :-)

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