British Museum: 3-Year Loan Model for Antiquities – Parthenon Sculptures Update

The British Museum is considering lending antiquities for up to three years amid increasing international pressure for the repatriation of cultural property. The new model was recently implemented by lending 80 exhibits to India.

British Museum Director Nicholas Cullinan stated that lending is a new model for decolonization through cultural diplomacy. However, he clarified that proposals for permanent return are not accepted.

Lending is seen as a painless solution to the problem of claims, such as for the Benin Bronzes. Greece has stated that it will not accept a solution involving the 'loan' of the Parthenon Sculptures, but communication channels remain open.