In a significant move for the preservation of cultural heritage, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. has announced the return of nine significant antiquities to Costa Rica. The prized artifacts were confiscated in the midst of ongoing investigations aimed to dismantle illicit networks involved in the looting and illegal trafficking of objects from South and Central America. Upon recovery, it was discovered that these artifacts had been illegally smuggled into the United States before being laundered through questionable provenance claims and later presented as legitimate via exhibitions and museum donations.
"I am thrilled that these nine pieces are being returned in what is our first repatriation with Costa Rica," Bragg expressed in a statement obtained by Manhattan D.A.'s office. The statement highlighted the complexity of the investigations and Bragg extended gratitude to everyone involved for their thorough investigative work aiming to restore these items to their rightful context.
Among the reclaimed items are six jade Celts – ceremonial axe-shaped pendants dating from around 600 to 1000 CE, which have been frequently targeted by looters due to their historical and artistic value. Sculpted from jade to depict human or animal figures, these Celts were traditionally placed in tombs along with other precious objects, including a jade Mace Head that is also part of the current repatriation effort.
Consul General, Ambassador Mabel Segura Fernández, highlighted the significance of the event, indicating the importance of multinational cooperation in this field. "The dedication and commitment of the Manhattan D.A. and the Antiquities Trafficking Unit have made possible an invaluable achievement," she told Manhattan D.A.s office.
