Ramses' hair

[vicki2]

http://www.newsday.com/news/nationwo...orld-headlines

This is an interesting article about artifcats being returned to Egypt. Seems many more are returning home these days.

[tater03]

Thanks for posting this article. I am glad to see the hair was returned to the rightful owners. I am just sick that some of these artifacts are in meusems where they have no right to be.

[mamab]

I saw something on TV not too long ago about how many things are being returned to Egypt, from all over the world. I think it's great that they're being returned, but wonder how many museums lose money because they no longer have those exhibits.

[FourBear]

I'm glad that many items, including Ramses' hair, are being returned to Egypt. Many of the Egyptian artifacts that are in foreign museums were obtained in not-so-ethical ways (back in the 1800s).

[Taggart]

Originally Posted by FourBear

I'm glad that many items, including Ramses' hair, are being returned to Egypt. Many of the Egyptian artifacts that are in foreign museums were obtained in not-so-ethical ways (back in the 1800s).

Speaking of that, I remember seeing mummies in a museum in Niagara Falls years ago. I think the museum has since closed.

I wonder if they were examples of unethical museum practices?

[vicki2]

At the time the things were taken, it wasn't considered unethical but more like a spoil of war or conquering. People took artifacts back with them sort of like tourists buy things now and take back home. Look at what controvery there has been with the Elgin Marbles.

[mamab]

I think you're right, Vicki. I don't think it WAS considered unethical back in the 1800's. Of course, times change. It's when people loot tombs and sell antiquities on the black market NOW that it's really a shame. Unfortunately, people are STILL making a living by selling things in unethical manner.

[tater03]

I guess you are right that it is from spoils of war. But I just think it is so sad to see a country's history being profited from in another country. Glad to see that it is changing though.

[Taggart]

Actually, as I recall the mummies I saw in the Niagara Falls museum, it seems to me that they were among other artifacts, which in my opinion showed less respect for them.

Do you think it's possible for Egyptian mummies to be respectfully displayed in other countries, on either a permanent or "touring" basis?

[vicki2]

I guess if you really think about what mummies are that displaying them isn't really very respectful of the dead. Sure we're curious about them and the process, but at the same time, should be even be looking at them?