The Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C. facilitated the return of 24 cultural artifacts to the Department of Archaeology of the Government of Nepal. The artifacts were previously part of a private collection owned by Ms. Susan Bradford, who resides in Maui, Hawaii.
Ms. Bradford voluntarily contacted the Embassy with the intention of returning the artifacts to their rightful place in Nepal. The collection includes pieces dating back to the 13th, 17th, and 18th centuries, and encompasses a variety of materials. Ms. Bradford generously covered the shipping costs to ensure the safe return of these historical treasures.
“The Embassy extends its sincere gratitude to Ms. Bradford for this commendable act,” said a spokesperson. “Her initiative serves as an inspiration to others who may possess Nepali cultural heritage abroad.”
This repatriation is part of the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to recover and restore Nepal’s lost and stolen art. They collaborate with various entities including the Nepali and US governments, art researchers, heritage recovery groups, media outlets, and private individuals.
“We are grateful for the cooperation of all these agencies and individuals,” the spokesperson added. “Together, we have successfully repatriated a total of 63 artifacts within the past year.”