WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a remarkable move towards cultural restoration, the FBI has returned two ancient artifacts to the Republic of Cyprus, marking the end of a collaborative investigation into the illegal trafficking of antiquities. The artifacts—a terracotta quadriga chariot sculpture and a biochrome flask, both dating back over 2,600 years—were officially handed over during a repatriation ceremony at the Embassy of Cyprus in Washington, D.C., on August 4.
This return was made possible through a coordinated effort involving the FBI’s Art Crime Team, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and the government of Cyprus. The investigation began after a request from Cyprus’s Office of Combating Illegal Possession and Trafficking of Cultural Goods, which successfully traced the artifacts to a New York art gallery.
“These objects often hold deep historical, spiritual, and cultural significance, carrying the stories and identity of the communities they belong to,” said FBI New York Special Agent Matt. “Their loss represents a wound in both the memory and heritage of the country. Repatriating these items restores justice, preserves cultural continuity, and allows history to be told truthfully from its source.”
Ancient History, Modern Justice
The two artifacts—each representing Cyprus’s ancient heritage—offer a unique insight into the island’s vibrant history.
The quadriga chariot sculpture, which dates back to approximately 600 BCE during the Cypro-Archaic period, showcases two helmeted figures—a warrior and a charioteer—seated in a box chariot pulled by three horses, although one is absent. This piece is thought to hold both military and religious importance, potentially serving as offerings in sanctuaries.
The biochrome flask, originating from the Cypro-Geometric III/Cypro-Archaic I period (around 750 BCE), is a barrel-shaped container adorned with red and black concentric bands encircling a geometric cross. Likely intended as a tomb offering, it embodies the artistic style and spiritual customs of ancient Cyprus.
From Gallery to Embassy
The artifacts were found after the Cypriot government identified them for sale on the website of a New York gallery, Art for Eternity. When approached by the FBI, the gallery owners willingly returned the items, accepting a financial loss in the name of ethical restitution.
“Art for Eternity voluntarily turned both artifacts over, believing that the cultural importance was more significant than the monetary value,” said Special Agent Matt. “Their cooperation demonstrates the importance of professional due diligence and partnerships between law enforcement and the private sector in combating the sale of illegally obtained cultural property.”
The artifacts are presently located at the Embassy of Cyprus in Washington, D.C., and they are set to be returned to Cyprus for exhibition in an upcoming cultural heritage museum. As Special Agent Matt noted, “Returning art and cultural property to its rightful owners is not just a legal duty but a moral imperative.”
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