Whether antiquities should be returned to the countries where they were found is one of the most urgent and controversial issues in the art world today, and it has pitted museums, private collectors, and dealers against source countries, archaeologists, and academics. Maintaining that the acquisition of undocumented antiquities by museums encourages the looting of archaeological sites, countries such as Italy, Greece, Egypt, Turkey, and China have claimed ancient artifacts as state property, called for their return from museums around the world, and passed laws against their future export. But in Who Owns Antiquity?, James Cuno, the president and director of the Art Institute of Chicago, vigorously challenges this nationalistic position, arguing that it is damaging and often disingenuous. Cuno believes that nationalistic retention and reclamation policies impede common access to this common heritage and encourage a dubious and dangerous politicization of antiquities and of culture itself. Antiquities need to be protected not only from looting, but also from nationalistic identity politics. To do this, Cuno calls for measures to broaden rather than restrict international access to antiquities. He advocates restoration of the system under which source countries would share newly discovered artifacts in exchange for archaeological help, and he argues that museums should again be allowed reasonable ways to acquire undocumented antiquities. The first extended defense of the side of museums in the struggle over antiquities, Who Owns Antiquity? is sure to be as important as it is controversial.

228 pages, 6 black-and-white illustrations. 6 1/2 in. x 9 1/2 in. Hardcover; clothbound, with jacket.

Who Owns Antiquity? Museums and the Battle over Our Ancient Heritage
03-021490
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Non-Member Price: $24.95 each


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