Loans of Archaeological Material

The acquisition of antiquities during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s has turned sour. One of the lessons from the recent returns of archaeological material to Italy is that museums need to check the documented history of objects before the pieces are purchased.

And so a new era has dawned. An era when there are more rigorous acquisition policies.

But is there a loop hole?

Loans.

I know that the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD) issued guidelines on the loan of Archaeological Material and Ancient Art in 2006. But can archaeological material from controversial private collections end up being displayed in public institutions without the same scrutiny as a formal acquisition?

What do you think?

Express your view over the loan of a bronze krater from the Shelby White collection. Vote now.