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: Hardback
Length: 288 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 delves into the legalities of their initial removal and the ethical considerations surrounding their retention by the British Museum. A balanced and comprehensive account of the Marbles' history is presented, incorporating perspectives from curators, museum directors, lawyers, archaeologists, politicians, and individuals in both London and Athens. The book seeks to understand why this particular dispute has not been resolved satisfactorily and proposes innovative approaches for finding a resolution. Drawing from evidence of past practices, legal rules governing the transfer of cultural objects, and the role of museums in international exchanges, the book offers a roadmap for resolving the Parthenon Marbles dispute and other cultural treasures held in museum collections outside their countries of origin. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and the general public interested in understanding the complexities of cultural heritage and the ongoing debates surrounding its preservation and restitution.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509967186