Return of 3,500-Year-Old Egyptian Sculpture by the Netherlands
Announcement and Context
The Netherlands has announced its plan to return a 3,500-year-old Egyptian sculpture, likely looted during the Arab Spring, to Egypt.
Official Statements
Dutch Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof made the announcement during the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Egypt, according to the Inspectorate of Government Information and Heritage.
Details of the Artifact
The sculpture is a head believed to depict a high-ranking official from the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III. It was offered for sale at the Tefaf art fair in Maastricht in 2022. After an anonymous tip, authorities identified it as illegally exported from Egypt, and the dealer voluntarily surrendered it.
Likely Looting During Arab Spring
Officials indicated the head was probably plundered during the Arab Spring protests in 2011 or 2012.
Repatriation and Diplomatic Meetings
The sculpture might be returned to Egypt later this year. During this event, Schoof discussed with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi at the museum opening, along with the premiers of Belgium and Luxembourg. Topics included the Gaza peace plan and an international reconstruction conference co-hosted by the Netherlands.
Author's Summary
The Netherlands plans to return a stolen Egyptian sculpture from the Arab Spring era, highlighting ongoing efforts to recover cultural heritage looted during political upheavals.