London’s V&A has announced an agreement with Yemen to research and look after four ancient objects before they can be returned to the country.
The four ancient carved funerary stones, which date from the second half of the first millennium BC, were found by the Metropolitan Police in a shop in east London.
The objects come from necropoli, or cemeteries, that have been looted in recent years. They will be returned to their country of origin when Yemen says it is safe enough.
The V&A will temporarily care for, research and conserve the stelae before exhibiting them as part of a new display dedicated to the preservation of cultural heritage at V&A East Storehouse in 2025.
“This is an historic agreement that will give the public the chance to appreciate these exceptional examples of Yemeni culture and creativity, before the objects are repatriated, and shine a light on how the V&A’s Culture in Crisis programme helps curtail the illegal trade of looted objects and the preservation of cultural heritage worldwide,” said Tristram Hunt, V&A director.
Charles Harper, the UK’s deputy ambassador to Yemen, added: “Arts and culture can play an important role in rebuilding a society from conflict and this agreement is a fantastic way to ensure Yemeni culture remains in Yemeni care.
“The war has taken a devastating toll on Yemenis. The UK will continue to support UN-led efforts to bring about a sustainable and inclusive peace in Yemen.”
Commander Stephen Clayman of the Metropolitan Police said: “The art and antiques unit seized these four stelae from a shop in London following information received from a concerned member of the public.
Preservation of cultural heritage
“The police investigation established that they are ancient archaeological artefacts from Yemen, and came from necropoli that have been subjected to looting in recent years.
“When the seller was given this information they made the generous decision to disclaim them, and asked for them to be returned to Yemen.”
V&A East Storehouse is one of two new V&A East sites under construction in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art has also partnered with the Yemeni government to display looted artefacts from Yemen during the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Images courtesy of the V&A
