Metropolitan Museum of Art Takes Action: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located in New York City, has announced its intention to return a collection of Southeast Asian sculptures linked to the late art dealer Douglas Latchford. The decision is a result of a collaboration between the museum, Cambodia, and the US Attorneys Office. Latchford, a British antiquities dealer and a prominent scholar on Khmer art, faced accusations of orchestrating a scheme to sell looted Cambodian antiquities. The indictment against him was dismissed following his death in 2020.
The artworks to be returned include 14 pieces to Cambodia and two to Thailand. These sculptures, dating from the 7th to the 14th centuries, depict representations of Hindu and Buddhist religious systems during the Angkorian period. Among the returned artifacts are pieces from the Koh Ker archaeological site, such as a 10th-century sandstone goddess statue and a “Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Seated in Royal Ease” from the late 10th to early 11th century.
The Met’s Director and CEO, Max Hollein, emphasized the museum’s dedication to resolving questions surrounding the artworks, stating that new information from the collaborative process highlighted the need for the return. Cambodia’s Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, Phoeurng Sackona, welcomed the repatriation, describing it as an “act of healing for our nation” and expressing hope for the return of other items of Cambodian origin from various institutions.
US Attorney Damian Williams underlined the commitment to investigating the illegal trade in stolen antiquities, urging cultural institutions and private collectors to be vigilant. Last August, as part of the ongoing investigation into artifacts connected to Latchford, New York officials announced the return of 30 cultural artifacts to Cambodia, which had been illegally sold to private collectors and a US museum.
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What makes The Metropolitan Museum of Art special?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a top-tier art museum that boasts an extensive collection of art from all over the world. With a history that spans 5,000 years, the museum showcases a diverse range of cultural artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day. Its collection is a testament to the richness and diversity of human culture, and visitors can explore the art and history of every corner of the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-visit destination.
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The Met adheres to certain principles to fulfill its mission. These include showcasing collections that represent the pinnacle of artistic achievement across cultures and eras, while also preserving and studying them. Additionally, the museum aims to educate and inspire audiences of all backgrounds about the relevance and potential of art.
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds the record for purchasing the priciest artwork, the “Madonna and Child” by Duccio di Buoninsegna. This masterpiece is believed to have been acquired for a staggering amount.
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The Met boasts a vast collection that spans from ancient art to modern photography, with a particular emphasis on contemporary works at the Met Breuer. Meanwhile, the MoMA is renowned for its focus on modern and contemporary art.