Is it authentic or is it a reproduction?
au-TEN-ti-co — four syllables; stress on the second. The 'au' is a diphthong — say both vowels smoothly.
Use this before purchasing anything claimed to be antique. The distinction between an original (autentico/originale) and a reproduction (riproduzione/copia) is crucial for value.
'Autentico' means authentic/genuine. 'Riproduzione' means reproduction — a copy made later to look like an antique. This is the most important question at any antique market. Honest sellers will tell you clearly; some may be evasive. Follow up with questions about provenance (provenienza) and documentation (documentazione).
Ha documentazione sull'autenticità?
Do you have documentation on its authenticity?
Asking for written provenance or certificates
Da dove viene questo pezzo?
Where does this piece come from?
Asking about provenance — a key factor in value
È stato restaurato?
Has it been restored?
Restoration (restauro) reduces value for purists but may be necessary for functionality
Italy's antique trade is regulated by the Ministero dei Beni Culturali. Items over 70 years old may be subject to export restrictions. For pieces over a certain value, an attestato di libera circolazione is required to take them out of Italy. Buyers should always ask about this if planning to export.