The Metropolitan Museum of Art Returns Three Ancient Sculptures to Iraq

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has declared the repatriation of three ancient artifacts to Iraq after thorough provenance investigations. These artifacts consist of a Sumerian vessel crafted from gypsum alabaster, dating back to the Early Dynastic IIIa period around 2600–2500 BCE, along with two Babylonian ceramic sculptures—the Head of a female and the Head of a male from the Old Babylonian period, roughly 2000–1600 BCE. The returns are part of The Met’s Cultural Property Initiative, which seeks to ensure the museum’s collections are obtained ethically. This initiative included hiring a Head of Provenance and additional researchers to examine the history of items in their holdings.

The Sumerian vessel, recognized for being supported by two rams, and the Head of a male were previously sold by the infamous dealer Robin Symes, known for trading in looted artifacts. Following collaboration with the Manhattan DA’s office, the museum concluded that these pieces should be returned to their rightful place. Max Hollein, the director and CEO of The Met, stressed the museum’s dedication to responsible art collection and promoting international cultural heritage partnerships.

The return of these artifacts is in line with The Met’s recent initiatives in cultural repatriation, representing another favorable milestone in collaboration with foreign governments. Previous successful returns include the Bronze Head of a Griffin to Greece and a custodial agreement for two stone sculptures with Yemen. These initiatives underscore The Met’s commitment to ethical stewardship and cultural exchange, paving a hopeful future for global art collaborations.