In a groundbreaking move, the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford has returned a 16th-century bronze idol to India. This sacred statue, representing Saint Thirumankai Alvar, was previously purchased at a Sotheby’s auction in 1967. Its true origins were discovered by a researcher in 2019, which prompted the museum to investigate further.
Dr. Xa Sturgis, the museum’s director, noted this significant moment, stating that evidence showed the statue had been photographed in a Tamil Nadu temple long before it was auctioned. The museum sought confirmation from the Indian High Commission, leading to an official hand-over ceremony at India House.
The bronze idol had likely been taken from its temple, where it had been replaced with a modern replica. Experts traveled to India to work with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and local authorities to confirm its provenance.
Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, praised the museum for their commitment to returning the idol. He recognized the importance of ensuring that cultural artifacts are acquired ethically. This return signals a shift towards greater recognition of provenance in art and cultural heritage.
Baroness Thangam Debbonnaire highlighted the statue’s significance, not just as art, but as a vital piece of cultural and religious heritage. She expressed her excitement about its return to Tamil Nadu, a region connected to her family.
The hand-over ceremony also included four other artifacts that had been stolen and smuggled out of India. These included notable statuettes like ‘Seated Ganesha with Parasol’ and ‘Dancing Ganesha.’ Their return was aided by collaboration among various agencies, including the US Department of Homeland Security and the Metropolitan Police.
William Crogan from HSI emphasized the need for continued efforts against cultural property crimes. He stressed that effective cooperation among nations is critical in combating the illicit trade in cultural artifacts.
This landmark event reflects the strengthening ties between India and the UK and highlights the ongoing battle against the smuggling of cultural property. The return of these artifacts not only restores the heritage of India but also sets a precedent for future collaborations in safeguarding cultural identity.
Source link
TAMIL NADU, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD, UK ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM, SAINT THIRUMANKAI ALVAR, SOUNDARARAJA PERUMAL TEMPLE, UK’S ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM RETURNS ANCIENT IDOL TO BE REPATRIATED TO TAMIL NADU TEMPLE
