How do I ensure the items I purchase are not from endangered animals?

We are deeply committed to protecting endangered species and ensuring that all items sold through our platform comply with international and national regulations. Here’s how we, and the auctioneers we work with, ensure that everything adheres to the latest laws, including those governing the trade of goods made from endangered species like ivory.

Auctioneer Responsibility

Auctioneers are required to ensure that every item they sell complies with regulations such as the EU laws derived from CITES (the UN Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna, 1975). These regulations, along with similar UK laws, protect endangered species from exploitation through trade. Auctioneers should be well-versed in these rules to ensure responsible sales.

CITES and Antiques Derogation

Under CITES, the antiques derogation allows certain antiques made from endangered species to be legally traded. This exemption applies to:

• Items acquired before March 3, 1947.
• Items that have been "significantly altered" from their natural raw state for purposes such as jewellery, art, adornment, utility, or musical instruments. Taxidermy often qualifies under this derogation as well.

Article 10 Certificates

Due to recent changes in regulations, many items now require a licence, known as an Article 10 certificate, from the Wildlife Licensing & Registration Service. This certificate is essential for the legal sale of such items. When browsing an auctioneer’s catalogue, check for mention of an Article 10 certificate. If it's missing, contact the auctioneer directly to clarify.

For more information, you can view the EU species lists at: https://gov.uk/guidance/cites-imports-and-exports.

UK’s Stricter Regulations

In the UK, stricter laws govern the sale of unworked ivory, rhinoceros horn, and tiger parts, with sales of these items effectively banned. These measures are in place to further protect these endangered species from illegal trade.

In addition to following CITES regulations, we expect auctioneers to adhere to the UK Ivory Act 2018. Under this act there are the below exemptions, however it is important to note that all exempted items must be registered before they can be legally sold.

• Pre-1918 items of outstanding artistic, cultural, or historical value: These items can be sold if they pass strict assessment criteria, regardless of their ivory content.
• Pre-1947 musical instruments: These are exempt if they contain less than 20% ivory by volume.
• Pre-1918 portrait miniatures: Small portraits that often used ivory as a base are generally exempt from the ban.
• Items made before 1947 with less than 10% ivory by volume: This typically applies to objects such as furniture or those with decorative inlays.
• Antique sales to museums: Objects of significant cultural or historical importance can be sold to museums.

Professional Trade Associations

We encourage buyers to consider using auctioneers who are members of professional bodies such as the Society of Fine Art Auctioneers (SoFAA) or NAVA PropertyMark. These organisations require their members to adhere to high standards of conduct, including compliance with CITES regulations, and ensure they stay updated with any changes in these laws.

Our Ethical Standards

We do not condone any intentional trade of items containing animal parts or products that contravene CITES regulations. We perform regular spot checks across our site and promptly address any potential issues we identify. We also act swiftly if we find evidence of illegal trading, working with auctioneers and relevant authorities to stop unlawful activities.

Our Commitment to Wildlife Protection

Our dedication to ethical trading practices ensures we contribute to the global effort to protect endangered species. By choosing trusted auctioneers and conducting thorough checks, we can all play a role in preserving the environment for future generations.