Related to the New York Times story commented here, it's disheartening to see that nothing has changed since Roger Atwood's 2007 critique regarding U.S. media coverage of antiquities issues.
"Trophy Hunters With Their Eyes on Interiors" is a puff piece that glorifies adventurous exploits in search of the "ultimate" authentic-looking old objects. The story advertises and promotes architects, designers and contractors, and justifies their if-you-have-to-ask-you-can't-afford-them fees. Instead, the Times could have told its readers and trophy hunters alike a cautionary tale, which would be much more useful to everyone.
First, importing certain antiquities from countries which have signed bilateral agreements to restrict importation of antiquities is against the law. Not only that, buyers may have to return their coveted purchases to their countries of origin.
At the very least, the article could have mentioned the numerous international and local governmental and non-governmental efforts underway in these ready-for-the-taking-third-world-countries to PRESERVE their remnants of the past.
Finally, genuine history cannot be bought. It is lived. Rich people who seek rich-looking items might do better to live rich lives. Their cobblestones WILL in time acquire "just the right" moss. Theirs too will have the smoothness, color and patina that come from aging. In time, they too could have rich history to leave behind.
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