Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Department

Art

First Advisor

Andrew Graciano

Abstract

In this paper, I will evaluate the infamous acquisition of Lord Elgin of Grecian Marbles, which are housed in the British Museum, with the goal of supporting the case for repatriation. I will first explore the historical background of the Acropolis, its monuments, and the destruction that has taken place over centuries. Then I will discuss the actions of Lord Elgin, Parliament, and the British Museum Board of Trustees. Additionally, in examining the liability of the international and governmental institutions, such as the United Nations and European Union, who are complicit in the case, we can find a path to rectifying the emotional and physical damage that has been done in the removal of the ancient Marbles. In combining art historical knowledge, international treaties, and ethical responsibilities, I hope to establish a precedent of repatriation, and suggest a further exploration into the nature of museum acquisitions. After establishing the cultural significance of the monument and the institutions involved in the acquisition, the processes of accessing and deaccessioning objects from museum collections will be explained “The term ‘reparations’ was initially used in connection with fines exacted among states.”1 This program of making amends to nations may occur in the form of financial and symbolic restitutions. These returns are inspired by feelings of regret or guilt for the actions of others that transpired in the past.2.

1Jenkins, “From objects of enlightenment to objects of apology: why you can’t make amends for the past by plundering the present”, 82.

2 Ibid, 82.

Rights

© 2026, Camille Marguerite Ferguson

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