The debate about the ownership of artifacts in museums continue. Very rarely do the museums give the history of the acquisition of pieces. The issue is that by buying stolen objects, they encourage the looting of cultural heritage. Some museums are now trying to be more transparent and have strict purchasing guidelines. Others believe the objects would be better cared for in a museum. Good op ed piece in The New York Times by Sharon Waxman "How did that vase wind up in the Metropolitan".
Transparency will help but maybe countries could consider some form of barter so their citizens could enjoy cross cultural exhibitions.
Oh! Hi. It's only me again.
American customs have in the past years registered and cashed in a ten fold of "van Goghs" production in revenue. Information ist alles! When people let themselves to be deceived the problem is theirs and theirs alone - see Madoff. I was a victim of Balsam to the tune of 2 million €. Who cares! I blew the whistle untill I was blue - no responce anywhere, who cares - no one.The lesson was tough, it will also be tough for the present victims. Perhaps the dimensions will change the thinking although I have only a small hope regarding change.
ciao George Scheller
Posted by: G. Scheller | February 05, 2009 at 06:15 PM