Adel Khelifi, a computer scientist at Abu Dhabi University, and Mark Altaweel, an archaeologist at University College London, have recently introduced a Web3-based verification-as-a-service model called Salsal. This system aims to determine and record the authenticity and provenance of cultural artifacts, bridging the world of historical objects through an on-chain verification process that is tamper-proof. Currently, there is no globally recognized official registry for historically significant artifacts, but many jurisdictions have la ws governing the procurement, collection, trade , and sale of such objects, especially those found on public or protected lands.
Salsal seeks to address issues like missing historically valuable artifacts and looted historic sites. Cultural heritage organizations can validate their collections by uploading images and descriptions to the service. Expert panels then rate the artifacts on a five-point scale similar to museum associations' grading process . Once proven legitimate, collectors have the option to turn the validated artifacts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs), which store data on the blockchain, ensuring immutability and accurate documentation of title transfers.
The researchers envision mass adoption of Salsal, where curators eagerly validate their collections through the service for authentication purposes, similar to owning rare collectibles graded by commercial validators. Although databases containing historical artifact information already exist, the unified database running on an immutable blockchain could play a vital role in deterring theft and robery, as it requires sellers and curators to record the provenance of artifacts. By using blockchain technology and NFTs, Salsal aims to provide a robust and trustworthy solution for establishing the authenticity and traceability of culture al heritage items.
