Ashmolean Museum to Return 16th-Century Bronze Sculpture to India
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Oxford University's Ashmolean Museum to return a 16th-century bronze sculpture of Saint Tirumankai Alvar to India. |
| Statue Details | - Height: 60cm- Origin: Believed to be stolen from a temple in Tamil Nadu.- Acquisition Year: 1967- Acquired from: Sotheby's auction house. |
| Acquisition | Acquired in 1967 from Dr J.R. Belmont's collection; museum claimed it was obtained in "good faith." |
| Alert and Investigation | An independent researcher raised concerns about the statue's origins, prompting the museum to investigate and notify the Indian High Commission. |
| Formal Request | Indian government submitted a formal request for the return of the statue. |
| Decision | Oxford University's Council supported the return; awaiting approval from the Charity Commission. |
| Previous Restorations | Recent instances include the return of a limestone carved relief sculpture and a "Navaneetha Krishna" bronze sculpture to India through joint US-UK investigations involving Scotland Yard's Art and Antiques Unit. |