The Parthenon Marbles Dispute: Heritage, Law, Politics

The book explores the history of the Parthenon Marbles, their removal by Lord Elgin in the 19th century, and the ongoing debate over their cultural heritage and restitution. It provides a balanced and critical account of the issue, incorporating the views of curators, museum directors, lawyers, archaeologists, politicians, and others in both London and Athens. The book suggests new ways of seeking resolution for the Marbles and other cultural treasures held in museum collections outside their countries of origin, based on evidence of past practice, legal rules, and the role of museums in negotiating international exchanges.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Parthenon Marbles, a renowned collection of ancient sculptures removed from the Acropolis in Athens by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century, have remained a subject of intense debate and controversy. This book provides a fresh perspective on the history of these sculptures, exploring their significance in the broader context of cultural heritage and restitution. The author offers a balanced, comprehensive, and critical account of the Marbles' history, considering the legalities of their initial removal and the ethical considerations of their retention by the British Museum. The book incorporates perspectives from curators, museum directors, lawyers, archaeologists, politicians, and others in both London and Athens. It delves into the reasons behind the ongoing dispute and proposes innovative solutions for resolving it, not only for the Parthenon Marbles but also for numerous cultural treasures held in museum collections outside their countries of origin. The book establishes a framework for resolving this famously intractable dispute, drawing upon evidence of past practices, legal rules governing the transfer of cultural objects, and the role of museums in facilitating international exchanges.

The Parthenon Marbles, a renowned collection of ancient sculptures removed from the Acropolis in Athens by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century, have remained a subject of intense debate and controversy. This book provides a fresh perspective on the history of these sculptures, exploring their significance in the broader context of cultural heritage and restitution. The author offers a balanced, comprehensive, and critical account of the Marbles' history, considering the legalities of their initial removal and the ethical considerations of their retention by the British Museum. The book incorporates perspectives from curators, museum directors, lawyers, archaeologists, politicians, and others in both London and Athens. It delves into the reasons behind the ongoing dispute and proposes innovative solutions for resolving it, not only for the Parthenon Marbles but also for numerous cultural treasures held in museum collections outside their countries of origin. The book establishes a framework for resolving this famously intractable dispute, drawing upon origin origin.

Weight: 415g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509967179