Smithsonian museum to return three bronze sculptures to India
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Prelims·
Why in news
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art announced the return of three bronze sculptures to the Government of India after provenance research confirmed their illegal removal from temples.
Background
The Smithsonian is returning three sculptures, including a 10th-century Nataraja and a 12th-century Somaskanda. The Indian government agreed to place one of these sculptures on long-term loan at the museum.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceSmithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art: Located in the United States
- FactNataraja sculpture: Dated to the 10th century
- FactSomaskanda sculpture: Dated to the 12th century
- FactAgreement: India to place one sculpture on long-term loan at the museum
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of international cooperation in the repatriation of stolen cultural heritage and its role in preserving national identity.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Diplomatic leverage: Utilizing bilateral cultural ties to facilitate the return of looted artifacts
- Provenance verification: The necessity of rigorous archaeological research to establish illegal removal from sacred sites
Keywords: cultural heritage · repatriation · provenance research · bilateral cooperation · national identity
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