In an effort to combat its reputation as a major global hub for illegal art trade, New York authorities have returned a collection of more than 40 stolen antiquities, valued at nearly $3.5 million, to Italy. The ceremony, which took place in New York, saw the handover of 42 remarkable artifacts, some dating back 2,500 years, to Italian officials. This initiative marks a step towards undoing the impact of organized networks that have been involved in smuggling Italian antiquities, according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s statement.
Bragg expressed his commitment to addressing the consequences of decades of illicit antiquities smuggling within Italy. Since assuming office in 2022, he revealed that more than 200 repatriations of antiquities to Italy have taken place.
Vincenzo Molinese, the commander of the Italian government’s Carabinieri Art Squad, praised the fruitful collaboration between the United States and Italy, which resulted in the successful recovery of these artifacts.
Among the returned pieces is an ancient vase originating from the Apulia region in southern Italy, dating back to 335 BC. Prosecutors revealed that it was stolen from a burial site and subsequently smuggled out of the country by Giacomo Medici, a well-known dealer in Italian antiquities.
The repatriation of these artifacts aligns with the United States’ ongoing efforts to support international partners in safeguarding cultural heritage and combating illicit trade in antiquities.
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