Cites licence

The law on trading endangered species is being tightened up through new Cites regulations and licensing laws. This applies to those importing or exporting woods such as Mahogany or Rosewood and objects such as tusks or certain taxidermy. It appears that you might have to apply for a licence if the piece is post 1947, however, those pre 1947 seem to be exempt.

We will continue to update you on this as we receive new information ourselves, in the meantime please look at links below if you think it might apply to you.

UPDATE Cities saga continues

Trade in endangered species is governed by the Unites Nations Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna. Cities controls "parts and derivatives" of endangered species as well as live specimens. This means that ivory, tortoiseshell, taxidermy items, wooden furniture etc are all controlled.

Most antiques, however, enjoy an exemption from the controls under what is known as the "worked item" derogation. This states that an item shall be exempt from the normal sales controls if it was acquired prior to June 1947 and has been significantly altered from its natural state for jewellery, adornment, art, utility or musical instrument.

One well known mid-century furniture dealer recently came unstuck when he was informed a piece of furniture he was selling was fashioned in a species of rosewood on the banned list. Unknowingly he was breaking the law.

Cities say "We are aware of the need to tighten up definitions and were hopeful of some progress on the matter in the near future. For the time being it's best to play it safe".

Cites

Cites licencing