FBI repatriates stolen Japanese treasures discovered in Massachusetts attic to Japan
Discover how the FBI has repatriated a collection of stolen Japanese treasures back to Japan, following the remarkable find of these artifacts in the attic of a late father's Massachusetts home.
The FBI recently returned a collection of stolen Japanese art back to Japan. A family in Massachusetts found the artifacts in their late father's attic and reached out to the FBI for help.
The family of a World War II veteran uncovered the items while going through their father's belongings. The FBI confirmed that the artifacts were indeed valuable Asian art. Interestingly, the veteran had never been stationed in the Pacific during the war.
The artifacts were later returned to Japan.
The artifacts were later returned to Japan.
Special Agent Geoffrey J. Kelly, who is the art crime coordinator for FBI Boston and a member of the FBI Art Crime Team, described the discoveries. He mentioned finding scrolls, pottery pieces, and an ancient map. These items appeared old and valuable.
They did some research and found out that the scrolls had been added to the FBI’s National Stolen Art File around 20 years ago.
The stolen items included six painted scrolls from the 18th and 19th centuries, a detailed hand-drawn map of Okinawa from the 19th century, as well as pottery such as plates, bowls, and teapots.
Among the items was a hand-drawn map of Okinawa
Among the items was a hand-drawn map of Okinawa
FBI
When unfurled and studied at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Asian Art in Washington, D.C., the scrolls showed colorful portraits of Okinawan royalty.
A letter typed on a typewriter was discovered with the artifacts in Massachusetts. This letter helped the FBI confirm that the artifacts were looted during the final days of World War II.
Kelly, a spokesperson, mentioned that when all the artifacts are considered together, they hold great significance as they represent a significant part of Okinawan history.
“A nation’s cultural identity is really summed up in the artifacts and the history,” he said.
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The British Museum is seeking assistance from the public to retrieve stolen treasures. Kelly emphasized the significance of preserving cultural heritage by returning these artifacts to their rightful countries and civilizations.
The artifacts were returned to Okinawa last week, the FBI said, but noted that several Okinawan objects are still missing and are listed in the National Stolen Art File.
Editor's P/S:
The recovery of the stolen Japanese artifacts highlights the enduring legacy of war and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The veteran's family, unaware of their father's involvement in the looting, played a crucial role in bringing these precious items back to their rightful home. The artifacts, including scrolls, pottery, and a map, offer a glimpse into Okinawa's rich history and the lives of its people.
The FBI's ongoing efforts to combat art crime demonstrate the agency's commitment to justice and the protection of cultural treasures. By working in collaboration with international partners, the FBI is helping to ensure that stolen artifacts are returned to their rightful owners, contributing to the preservation of cultural identity and the fostering of international understanding. The return of these artifacts to Japan is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect us to our past and inspire future generations.
