Regardless of the protestations of the Greeks and others whose lands
we have despoiled over the centuries, it is probably better for
civilisation and posterity that the Elgin Marbles, amongst other
antiquities, have been safely housed here than left to the
vandalism, thievery and corruption of the locals. I have never
really understood this obsession with returning things to their
"rightful" owners after centuries have passed; just how far back
would you go? In any case, why is it so terrible that the
public can enjoy odd artworks in random places? At least,
despite the moral blackmail at the entrance asking for donations,
it is a fantastic museum and free (or at least already included in
my taxes)...unlike similar institutions in other countries.
So whether your special interest is Ancient
Greece, Egyptian mummies, Roman sculpture, Benin Bronzes or
something more esoteric (they even have moai from Easter Island),
then there will be several decent examples to keep you happy. |