Artwork from Libya and across the Middle East was looted in the 1980’s causing an influx of stolen artwork across the world. I just learned about this recently because of 2 busts that were given back to the country of Libya that the Manhattan DA found to be stolen during a time of upheaval in the country. One of the busts was on display at the MET since 1997 and had tell tale signs of looting within the pieces (dirt from excavation site and chips on the bust). I think that it’s really sad and surprising that artwork could be on display for 25 years without any idea of it being stolen. Stolen artwork is something that I’ve never really thought about and I’m happy that it has become a greater topic of discussion so art can be returned to the original owners.
(https://news.artnet.com/art-world/met-museum-returns-looted-libyan-bust-2092386)
