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The Met to House 14 Ancient Sculptures on Loan from Yemen
September 29, 2024, 10:53.04 am ET

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Photos:The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has announced the loan of 14 ancient stone and bronze sculptures from the Republic of Yemen, dating from the first century B.C.E. through the third century C.E. These works were voluntarily repatriated from the Hague family collection in New Zealand and will be housed at The Met for study and cataloging. This loan follows the formation of a historic custodial agreement between The Met and Yemen in 2023. The collection includes funerary stelae, sculptures, and votive objects, many made from translucent calcite alabaster, originating from the ancient city of Timna in southwestern Arabia, a hub of the incense trade.

Max Hollein, The Met’s Director, expressed gratitude for the partnership with the Republic of Yemen, which underscores the museum's commitment to preserving and studying cultural heritage. Ambassador Mohammed Al-Hadhrami of Yemen also commended the collaboration, stating that while the current situation in Yemen prevents the artifacts' immediate return, their preservation at The Met is an important step in safeguarding Yemen’s cultural history. The loan further strengthens The Met's ongoing international collaborations focused on the stewardship of cultural property.

For more information, visit the Met's website

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