US museum to return 3 bronze sculptures removed illegally from temples in TN, Pg2

Key Highlights:

• The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art will return three illegally removed bronze sculptures to India.
• The sculptures include 'Shiva Nataraja' (10th century), 'Somaskanda' (12th century), and 'Saint Sundarar with Paravai' (16th century).
• Research confirmed the sculptures were photographed in Tamil Nadu temples between 1956 and 1959.
• The 'Shiva Nataraja' sculpture was acquired in 2002 from Doris Wiener Gallery which provided falsified documentation.
• One sculpture will be placed on long-term loan to the museum by the Ministry of Culture.

Detailed Insights:

• The museum conducted a detailed investigation into the provenance of the sculptures as part of a systematic review of its South Asian collections.
• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) affirmed that the sculptures were removed in violation of Indian laws.
• The 'Shiva Nataraja' belonged to the Sri Bhava Nasha Desvara temple and was photographed there in 1957.
• The 'Somaskanda' and 'Saint Sundarar with Paravai' sculptures were part of a gift from Arthur M Sackler in 1987.
• The return of the sculptures highlights the museum's commitment to ethical practices and transparency in collection management.
• The long-term loan of the 'Shiva Nataraja' will allow the museum to share the story of its origins, removal, and return.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Provenance: The history of ownership of a valued object or work of art or literature.
• Antiquities Trafficking: Illegal trade and movement of ancient artifacts and cultural objects.
• Ethical Museum Practice: Adhering to moral principles in acquiring, preserving, and displaying cultural heritage.