Chicago Institute of Arts (AIC) announces its return this week Buddha is sheltered by the snake king Muchalinda Confessed to Nepal that the 12th century sculpture was stolen from Guita Bahi in the Kathmandu Valley.
The museum said the decision came after research and collaboration with new source studies and collaborations with Nepalese officials. Rewards come as institutions increasingly drive or are forced to restore and repatriate stolen cultural products.
The statue depicts a statue of Buddha protected by the Snake King during a storm and has been on display in the museum since 1997. “This return reflects the importance of source research and the Institute for Arts’ active advocacy and collaboration with the country and community,” said Jacques Schuhmacher of the museum,” said Jacques Schuhmacher, the museum’s executive director.
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The Nepal government welcomes the move. “This sacred sculpture is a vehicle for stories, traditions and values…its return strengthens the connection between heritage and community, ensuring future generations can be linked to their history.” Sharad Raj Aran of the Nepal Embassy in Washington, DC said that the repatriation director not only strengthens Nepal’s cultural heritage, but also strengthens Nepal’s cultural heritage and promotes future cooperation and cooperation.
AIC maintains one of the largest source research teams in the United States, highlighting a wider agency shift to addressing problematic acquisitions. The return of Muchalinda Buddha is part of a growing trend in the museum community, and many institutions are now facing increasing scrutiny on the source of artworks in their collections.
