Last month, Cambodia’s Prime Minister welcomed over 70 artifacts back to the Kingdom in a celebration held in Phnom Penh. This included 14 pieces from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, returned following the launch of the Met’s Cultural Property Initiative.
This initiative, launched in spring of 2023includes: a focused review of works in the collection; hiring additional provenance researchers to join the many researchers and curators; further engaging staff and trustees; and using The Met’s platform to support and contribute to public discourse on this topic.
This announcement committing to new policies and practices on ancient art and artifacts was welcomed by the Antiquities Coalition, and included a recognition from Director Max Hollein that “Whatever unlawfully entered our collection, should not be in our collection.”
The AC has been at the forefront of requests for change, urging the museum to take “strong, concrete, and immediate action” in response to recent scandals, joining such varied voices as law enforcement, investigative journalists, activists, and even comedians like John Oliver. The AC appreciates that the Met and its leadership are listening to public calls to strengthen transparency and due diligence, which have grown as the American public becomes more aware of museum collecting practices – and not just those from the bygone days of the 20th century.
That said, actions speak louder than words, especially when it comes to taking accountability for past wrongs. While the return of an object to a country of origin is important, it is only one part of a comprehensive, ethical, and transparent provenance program. Other important steps include proactive collections research, open and honest communication and collaboration with stakeholders, updating policy for the 21st century, and following not only the letter, but the spirit of the law.
This was emphasized by the Cambodian Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, who said “We appreciate this first step in the right direction. We look forward to further returns and acknowledgments of the truth regarding our lost national treasures.”
With this initiative, the Met has an opportunity to prove it is prepared to back up its 2023 announcement with concrete action. As a public institution, it owes this to its local, national and international, public audiences. Until then, the public should feel empowered to hold museums accountable, and should follow the Met’s efforts closely.
The AC will be “watching this space”.
Follow us here and on our website for updates.
