Oxford University Agrees to Return Stolen 500-Year-Old Bronze Idol to India

Oxford University’s Ashmolean Museum has decided to return a 16th-century bronze sculpture of Saint Tirumankai Alvar to India, following a formal request from the Indian government. The 60cm-tall statue, believed to have been stolen from a temple in Tamil Nadu, was acquired by the museum in 1967 from Sotheby’s auction house. The decision comes after an independent researcher alerted the museum to the statue’s origins, prompting the museum to notify the Indian High Commission.

Acquisition and Alert

The Ashmolean Museum acquired the statue in 1967 from the collection of Dr J.R. Belmont, stating that it was obtained in “good faith.” However, an independent researcher raised concerns about its origins, leading to the museum’s investigation and subsequent alert to the Indian High Commission.

Formal Request and Decision

Upon receiving a formal request from the Indian government, Oxford University’s Council supported the return of the bronze idol to India. The decision is now awaiting approval from the Charity Commission.

Previous Instances of Restored Artefacts

This decision follows a trend of returning stolen Indian artefacts from the UK to India. Recent instances include the restoration of a limestone carved relief sculpture and a “Navaneetha Krishna” bronze sculpture, both originating from Indian states, through joint US-UK investigations involving Scotland Yard’s Art and Antiques Unit.

Piyush Shukla

Recent Posts

GK Quiz on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Questions and Answers

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, also known as the "Father of the Indian Constitution," was a…

20 mins ago

List of RBI Governors of India 1935 to 2024

The RBI Governor is the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Bank of India and the…

59 mins ago

Chaudhary Charan Singh Biography- Age, Political Career, Contributions and Awards

Chaudhary Charan Singh (23 December 1902 – 29 May 1987) was a prominent Indian politician…

1 hour ago

What is the Old Name of Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is a state in north-western India, known for its rich history, beautiful palaces, forts…

1 hour ago

PV Sindhu Biography- Age, Marriage, Career, Records and Net Worth

PV Sindhu is one of India's most celebrated badminton players, known for her exceptional skills,…

2 hours ago

Top-10 Most Expensive Woods in the World, Check the List

Wood is a natural material used in furniture, tools and decoration. It comes from trees…

3 hours ago