Cultural Artifact Research Paper

Artifacts have been an important part of history forever. Some say that the artifacts should be returned to their homeland. They say this because the artifacts lose their context and a part of history when they are moved from their home. In reality, it is better to keep the artifacts in the museums. These artifacts should be kept in museums because the countries that own them may not be able to fund the protection the artifacts. Also, the artifact’s place of origin could be in turmoil, or the territory may be different country. These artifacts should be kept in a safe and secure place, away from thieves and other mishaps. In the article, “A Case of Antiquities for ‘Finders Keepers’” by John Tierney, says that “a country in turmoil can’t afford to excavate or guard all of its treasures.” They need to be guarded, but some of the countries that the artifacts are suppose to be returned to, cannot do that. So returning the artifacts to their country of origin, could result in the ultimate destruction of that artifact. Also, the artifacts place of origin may not be a country anymore. Where do you return it then? This is the question many people are asking. During Joyce Mortimer’s interview with James Cuno, James states a “territory
held today by a given nation-state likely belonged to a different political entity.” If the country of origin of the country is a different political entity, that new country does not have the legal right to the artifact. This creates an abundant amount of confusion and disagreement. If the artifacts are just left in the museums there is no confusion and makes it better for everyone.
Some will say that these historical relics need to be returned to their place of origin.
Their reason is that the country has the right to enjoy the relic. Recently, many of these artifacts are being returned. As the article, “Visions of Home: Repatriated Works Back in Their Countries of Origin” by Rachel Donadio says “30,767 people visited the Aidone museum, and about 26,000 visited Morgantina, compared with 400,000 people who visited the Getty Villa in 2010, the last year the statue was on display there.” This proves the point that these relics are not being enjoyed by their country of origin. They were learned about and viewed more in a place that knows nothing about these relics. Thus, proving that they need to be kept in
museums. In conclusion, artifacts should be kept in museums. There is no reason to return them to their original homes, although some disagree. They believe that these artifacts lose something when they are removed. However, when these artifacts are kept in museums they are safer and sometimes there is no country to return them to because the country has been overthrown. Artifacts are the core of history; they tell a story that needs to be heard by all. Museums allow these beautiful works of art to do just that.