Article Author:
Associated Press
Larry Neumeister
New York (AP) — Cambodia's Ambassador to the United States said on Monday that the transfer of 30 relics by US law enforcement authorities to their home country was "our culture. The resurrection of "the soul".
Ambassador Keo Chhea spoke at a ceremony, one of several works of art whose background is the 10th century sculpture "Peacock Skanda". US and Cambodian officials explained the implications of the return of 30 ancient relics. Located in Southeast Asian countries.
"It's like returning the soul of our culture to our people," Chhea said. "We are very grateful."
Chia praised the US-Cambodia cooperation to enable the return of the relics, but they continue. He said he was fighting a "global problem."
He added, "We need to commit and keep fighting" to prevent further looting and prevent the looting of valuable works of art by the tools used by the looters. rice field.
Some sculptures, including a 10th-century sculpture depicting Ganesha, the Hindu elephant god over three tons, were too heavy to be brought to the ceremony, Damian, who hosted the event. Williams said.
The sculpture was plundered from the ruins during the long civil war and instability in Cambodia.
Williams sent statues to the famous ancient dealer Douglas Latchford by an organized predatory network (including predators affiliated with the Khmer Rouge). So Western dealers, collectors and institutions.
Latchford died before being handed over to the United States on charges of wire fraud plots and other crimes in federal court in Manhattan, prosecutors said. The indictment was finally dismissed due to his death.
Williams said some of the sandstone and bronze sculptures and crafts were abandoned by the owner when US officials said they had been stolen. Others were alleged through court proceedings. They ranged from the Bronze Age to the 12th century.
"We praise individuals and institutions that have decided to do the right thing, and after knowing the origin of the ancient relics they own, voluntarily return their work to their hometown. I decided, "Williams said. "We would like to encourage anyone who believes to have illegally obtained Cambodia or other relics they own to come forward."
