'Walking a fine line: Obtaining sensitive information using a valid methodology

Kersel, M. (2010) ‘Walking a fine line: Obtaining sensitive information using a valid methodology’, in M. Sorensen, and J. Carman (eds), Heritage Studies: Methods and approaches (London, New York: Routledge), 178-200.

In the global marketplace for cultural objects there are illegal elements at every stage. Individuals clandestinely pillage archaeological sites. The artefacts then move through a series of both legal and illegal conduits to arrive at a salesroom or auction house for sale to private collectors or museums that turn a blind eye to the question of provenance (archaeological findspot).