The Netherlands has officially returned a 3,500-year-old ancient sculpture to Egypt, marking a significant step in international efforts to repatriate looted cultural heritage.
The artefact, which dates back to Egypt’s New Kingdom period, was handed over to Egyptian authorities after investigations confirmed it had been illegally removed from the country decades ago. Dutch officials said the return followed close cooperation between law enforcement agencies, cultural institutions and Egyptian counterparts.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, representatives of the Netherlands described the move as a commitment to justice and respect for the cultural and historical rights of nations. They stressed that museums and collectors have a responsibility to ensure artefacts in their possession are acquired through lawful and ethical means.
Egyptian officials welcomed the return, describing the sculpture as an important piece of the country’s ancient history and identity. They noted that the artefact would be conserved and eventually displayed for public education and appreciation.
The repatriation comes amid a broader global push by countries, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, to recover antiquities that were looted or exported illegally during colonial and post-colonial periods. Egypt has in recent years intensified diplomatic and legal efforts to reclaim stolen artefacts from institutions and private collections around the world.
The return of the sculpture is seen as a positive signal for continued international collaboration in addressing the legacy of cultural heritage theft and restoring historical objects to their countries of origin.
