About Session

This panel explores the complex and often contested histories behind works of art by examining provenance, ownership, cultural heritage and the ethical responsibilities of collectors, institutions and nations.

Moderated by: Sally Metzler-Dunea *97 ART, Founder and Chairperson, Global COVID-19 Monument of Honor, Remembrance, and Resilience

Dora C.Y. Ching *11 ART, Executive Director, Tang Center for East Asian Art, Princeton University
Topic: Plunder and preservation of Buddhist wall paintings and sculpture from Dunhuang, China

MaryKate Cleary, Curator of Provenance, Princeton University Art Museum
Topic: Alaskan indigenous art of the Tlingit and Haida in museum collections: transparency, ethical stewardship and repatriation.

Nicholas Napoli *03 ART, Associate, Gerner, Kronick + Valcarcel Architects, DPC
Topic: Giuseppe Fiorelli’s Excavations at Pompeii: Modern Archaeology and the Forging of National Identity

Chika Okeke-Agulu, Director, Program in African Studies and Director, Africa World Initiative, Princeton University
Topic: The Politics and practice of restitution and repatriation of looted “Benin Bronzes.”