A new window for returning Parthenon sculptures with a “loan” model.
The British Museum’s new director has suggested the institution could take a “borrowing” approach during his tenure, potentially paving the way for the return of the Parthenon sculptures, the Independent reports.
Nicholas Cullinan, the former head of the National Portrait Gallery, said he was keen to “do something positive” with the museum’s heritage as debate continues over the return of historically important colonial objects to their countries of origin. When asked about returning such items on a temporary basis, Mr Cullinan opened the door to such an arrangement.
“I would like to hope that some form of collaboration is possible, and that’s something I think we’ll definitely want to pursue. I think it’s a little early for me to detail how it might work, but I’m optimistic,” he said.
Although he acknowledged that the repatriation of the Parthenon sculptures was hampered by a 1963 Act of Parliament that prohibits the return of certain works by law, his willingness to work with other institutions around the world is a new foundation for the museum that has it. about 8 million items in his collection