elpais.com
Repatriation of Mayan Frieze to Mexico
A Mayan limestone frieze from the Classic period (600-900 AD), currently in Chicago's National Museum of Mexican Art, is being returned to Mexico after its former private owners, the Sullivan family, initiated the repatriation process through the NMMA and INAH, following its display at the Brooklyn Museum in the 1960s and 70s.
- What is the significance of the repatriation of this Mayan frieze to Mexico?
- A Mayan limestone frieze, dating from 600-900 AD, is being repatriated to Mexico from the National Museum of Mexican Art (NMMA) in Chicago. The 1.2-meter-tall piece, depicting a masked figure, is the left side of a pair; the other's location is unknown. It was previously displayed at the Brooklyn Museum before entering private ownership.
- What factors contributed to the Sullivan family's decision to return the artifact?
- The repatriation highlights a growing trend of returning cultural artifacts to their countries of origin. The Sullivan family, former owners, facilitated the return, recognizing the changing perspectives on cultural heritage. The NMMA's collaboration underscores a commitment to ethical practices and repatriation efforts.
- What broader implications does this repatriation have for future collaborations between museums and countries of origin regarding cultural artifacts?
- This repatriation signifies a broader shift in global attitudes towards cultural heritage. Increased awareness of cultural appropriation and the importance of contextualizing artifacts within their original communities is driving similar initiatives. Future collaborations between museums and originating countries can be expected.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the repatriation very positively, emphasizing the cooperation between institutions and the importance of returning cultural heritage. The headline (not provided, but inferred from the text) would likely reinforce this positive framing. The focus on the positive aspects of the repatriation might overshadow any potential negative consequences or complexities.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. However, phrases like "indebidamente radicado" (improperly located) in Prieto's quote could be considered slightly loaded, implying a moral judgment on the previous ownership. More neutral alternatives could include "currently located" or "previously held.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the repatriation process and the perspectives of the NMMA and INAH. While it mentions the previous owners, the Sullivan family, their motivations are presented briefly. There is no mention of any other potential claimants to the artifact or any discussion of potential legal challenges to the repatriation. Further, there is no mention of the potential impact on the community from which the artifact originated.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified narrative of the repatriation as a positive and straightforward process. It doesn't explore potential complexities or disagreements that might have arisen during negotiations or the possibility of alternative outcomes.
Sustainable Development Goals
The repatriation of the Mayan frieze exemplifies international cooperation to protect cultural heritage, promoting justice and respect for the cultural rights of the country of origin. The act of returning the artifact fosters stronger institutional relationships between Mexico and the US, contributing to peaceful resolutions of cultural property disputes.