#Britain stole the Rosetta Stone for the museum

[ausetkmt]

The Rosetta Stone has been in the hands of the British since the early 1800s. But now Egyptians say they want it back. Repatriate Rashid, an online petition started by a group of Egyptian archeologists, is calling for the British Museum to return the ancient artifact to its rightful owners.

As the petition points out, Egypt was controlled by the Turkish Empire and was not in control of its cultural heritage at the time the four foot granite stone was taken from them. Therefore, the stone and other artifacts the Brits took back then are not rightfully theirs.

The petition states:

“The Rosetta stone was undeniably a spoil of war and an act of plunder that was outlawed in the 17th and 19th centuries. The presence of these artifacts in the British Museum to this day supports past colonial endeavors of cultural violence and deprives Egypt as the country of origin of not only the physical return of these objects but also of their important role as Egyptian cultural heritage that spans a millennia of rich history.”

The Rosetta stone is a piece of a larger stone slab with a message carved into it about King Ptolemy V. But because that message was inscribed in three different scripts, including Ancient Greek, the stone became an important tool to help scientists decode hieroglyphics.

The stone was “discovered” by Napoleon’s army in 1799. But when the French surrendered Egypt to Britain in 1801, the Treaty of Alexandria gave them the stone and other artifacts along with it.

As the petition points out, returning the stone and other artifacts to Egypt is a major step in righting the wrongs of the past. “History can’t be changed, but it can be corrected. And despite the withdrawal of political, military, and governmental rule of the British Empire from Egypt over a century ago, decolonisation is far from being over.”

#Rosetta Stone #Emerald Tablets #Hieroglyphics #Egypt #Britain stole the Rosetta Stone for the museum #napoleon's lil theifin ass #stolen legacy #stolen artifacts #return our stolen artifacts #colonializations thefts #the Fake Treaty of Alexandria

[issuesinmuseumrepatriation]

The Case of the British Museum

Photo from here

(word count: 747 / class term: deaccessioning)

I don’t know about you, reader, but I’ve heard my fair share of funny comments along the lines of, “If the British Museum gave back everything it stole, the whole building would be empty!” This sounds like an exaggeration, but it’s not far from the truth—according to human rights lawyer Geoffrey QC, “The British Museum is the world’s largest receiver of stolen property.” The institution constantly fields requests to return objects, and denies nearly all of them, except in special cases. 1 It holds over 8 million objects, of which about 80,000 are permanently displayed, and many are from Egypt. High-profile ones include the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles; the return of both has been requested by Egypt and Greece, respectively. 2

However, even if the museum wanted to engage in genuine repatriation, the process is not simple. The British Museum’s rules regarding disposal of any items were defined in the British Museum Act of 1963, subsection 5.1. 3 In it there are 4 specific situations outlined in which removal of an object is allowed: an object is a duplicate of another, an object was made after 1850 and can be reproduced from photographs (or something akin to photographs), and if the board of Trustees determines that it is unfit for collection and of no use to students. 4 There are subsections dealing with objects that are infested or damaged, or for loaning artifacts out to other institutions, and these are the only situations in which an artifact can be permanently taken out of the collection. 5 In other words, deaccessioning, or the process of removing an artifact from a repository, is strictly regulated, and is solely the decision of the Board of Trustees, which is appointed by the British government to undeniably advance British interests. 6 Without legislative changes, the battle for repatriation faces serious institutional hurdles. Truthfully, it appears that they are more likely institutional impossibilities, so long as Britain desperately wants to cling to the power of its colonial heyday, which was abundantly clear to me during my summer spent there. Nationalism, royalism, and the obfuscation of the truth about the colonial empire are British cultural values.

“The Museum understands and recognises the significance of the issues surrounding the return of objects and works with communities, colleagues and museums across the globe to share the collection as widely as possible. We believe in the importance of lending our collection, it strengthens the stories the collection tells and when displayed alongside other objects, they create new stories and conversations.” 7

This was the most recent statement from a spokesperson for the British Museum after it was announced that several pieces associated with the Benin Kingdom were going to be loaned to Nigeria, following a series of protests as well as announcements from other museums that their pieces were going to be returned. 8 This stance, while consistent with the current state of the law, plainly shows the attitude the British Museum holds towards the idea of repatriation. At another point the spokesman refers to the artifacts from Benin as pieces of the “permanent collection,” indicating that while they might allow artifacts to be displayed in the lands they originate from, they have no doubt about who owns them. 9 As of now, the British Museum is happy to work within the confines of the law and to enforce their dominion over the countless artifacts which have been torn from the people that created them. 

Other museums in the United Kingdom, however, have been engaging in repatriation efforts. One is the Pitt Rivers Museum, which was once dubbed “one of the most violent spaces in Oxford.10 After Samwel Nangiria, a scientist and representative of the Maasai tribe, confronted the museum about egregious errors in the museum’s display of Maasai artifacts, the museum created a program called the Living Cultures initiative. 11 This is a partnership between Maasai representatives in Kenya and Tanzania, the museum, and a non-profit that advocates for indigenous voices, and it allows them to serve as direct consultants and provide guidance and information valuable to tracing provenance. 12 It allows for the Maasai community to have a say in whether an artifact needs reinterpretation, a change in the way it’s displayed, or repatriation altogether. 13

Other European countries like France have also begun a repatriation process, as last November Emmanuel Macron would return objects that were taken from their colonies in Africa. Let’s see how slowly it goes. 14

Alberge, Dalya. “British Museum Is World's Largest Receiver of Stolen Goods, Says QC.” The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, November 4, 2019. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/nov/04/british-museum-is-worlds-largest-receiver-of-stolen-goods-says-qc. 

Ahmadi, Ali Abbas. “Should the British Museum Return Its Egyptian Collection?” The New Arab. The New Arab, December 13, 2019. https://english.alaraby.co.uk/analysis/should-british-museum-return-its-egyptian-collection. 

“Annex III: Position Statement on Duties, Powers, Policies and Procedures in Relation to Restitution, Repatriation and Spoliation .” House of Commons. Parliament. Accessed August 18, 2022. https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm199900/cmselect/cmcumeds/371/0060805.htm. 

Ibid.

Ibid.

Sánchez-Morales, Lara. “Laboratory & Curation in Archaeology.” Zoom, University of Texas at Austin, July 21, 2018.

Fleary, Sinai. “Looted Benin Bronzes Can Be ‘Loaned’ Says British Museum.” Voice Online, March 3, 2022. https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/uk-news/2022/03/03/looted-benin-bronzes-can-be-loaned-says-british-museum/. 

Ibid.

Ibid.

Adams, Geraldine Kendall. “A New Approach to Repatriation.” Museums Association, December 11, 2020. https://www.museumsassociation.org/museums-journal/features/2020/11/a-new-approach-to-repatriation/.

Ibid.

Ibid.

Ibid.

Porterfield, Carlie. “Europe's Museums, Collectors Are Returning Artifacts to Countries of Origin amid Fresh Scrutiny.” Forbes. Forbes Magazine, April 21, 2022. https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2021/10/27/europes-museums-collectors-are-returning-artifacts-to-countries-of-origin-amid-fresh-scrutiny/?sh=16ceceaf675b.

[nitannichionne]

The Rise of Isis (Henry Cavill/Superman Fanfic), Chapter 5: Palace of the Past (Isis POV)

Chapter 5: Palace of the Past (Isis POV)

ISIS POV

Hototo was far more obedient at times.

I wanted to see technology from today. Chinzari had told me about it, but when I asked questions he kept saying how much rest I needed. I wanted to see for myself. I needed to.

I waited for Chinzari to go meet the Hopis. He said he would be gone for days, and I knew now Hototo would not have him to tell him what to do. I would tell him what to do now and he could not defer to Chinzari, whom I felt I owed my life and respect to.

Hototo brought me something called a TV and laptop. It seemed as if every machine he let me see had a tail for energy or complex machines inside them to make them work. I watched him connect.

"I understand some language, but not all," I told him as I looked at the TV and looked down at the laptop buttons. "Where is the stone?"

"The stone?"

"The Language Codex?" I watched Hototo look very uncomfortable. "I understand I have been gone. I will not punish you for what has happened. Where is the Language Codex? Where are the books?"

I watch Hototo cringe. "They were taken."

"Taken?"

"By England," Hototo answered. "The British?"

"Who are they?"

"One kingdom that invaded other lands unified to became one--"

"Like the Romans and Greeks," I frowned. "Even before my slumber, I could see they wanted everything they could get their hands on."

Hototo shook his head. "Not exactly." He began to look fearful. "They are one of the richest and most powerful countries--"

"Standing on the shoulders of Egypt and other lands, no doubt," I nodded. "This Britain-United Kingdom-they stole from Egypt?"

"They discovered much and wanted to learn."

"They found things and took them," I corrected. "And what of our things?"

"They are on display."

"Display?" I repeated. "Like animals in a zoo?"

His gaze dropped to the floor. "Yes, goddess."

"Where?" I asked softly. When Hototo didn't respond, I asked, "WHERE?!"

"The British Museum," Hototo swallowed hard. "A palace to the past."

"A palace of education made of stolen lives and knowledge," I bit out. "Take me there."

"My goddess--"

"Do not make me look for it myself," I warned, pointing at him. "I promise I will blaze a path for all to see if you don't."

*************

Flying the world is an experience. I could tell there was much that had changed and much to see, but right now I had something else to do. I landed with Hototo and straightened my new age clothes. I was in a white tuxedo, as Hototo called it. The only thing I still wore was the crown and necklace I was laid to slumber with.

We walked inside and he led me to the Egyptian Exhibit. It was a house of horrors.

"Hototo!" I cried. "They took people, Hototo!"

"Shh, my lady!"

I covered my mouth, trying not to collapse and weep. "I knew them!" I pointed. "Wait-where are their bodies?"

"They study--"

"No, this isn't study!" My voice steadily rose. "This is blasphemy! Yes, I know that word-blasphemy! When Egyptians studied, they did it in prayer, away from others!" I paused. "Where are their jars?"

"Elsewhere."

"When Kryptonians died and did not want to wait for the sun to revive them, they asked that their insides be taken out. We could live many years."

"Egyptians did that."

"They got the ritual from us hoping to join us in the heavens," I told him, shaking my head. "They did not realize we were just tired of living and were ready to pass and let the next generation rule. Lightning usually ended a Kryptonian's life, but the Egyptians thought it meant our souls went to the sky."

Hototo looked sad. "Many things have changed."

"No it hasn't," I sneered. "Barbarians are running the world!"

"Excuse me, Miss?"

I turned to see what I assumed was a United Kingdom guard.

"Is there a problem?"

"None of this belongs to you!"

Anther man came forward. "We discovered and procured it--"

"You must be scholar, judging by your seeing glasses and lack of muscle." I looked the man over.

"We assure you, we are giving utmost respect--"

I turned and walked away. "Ah, the Language Codex." I looked at the bottom. "Kryptonian on the bottom. We wanted to put our language there, so others would know we helped build the foundation of your civilization."

"What?" the scholar frowned. "That's not true--"

"Were you there?"

"Were you?"

I let my eyes flash.

The guard stepped behind the scholar. "Miss, you need to leave now."

I turned to Hototo. "Leave now."

"What?" Hototo's eyes widened with fear.

"I cannot protect you while I do what I am about to do," I hissed. "Go!"

He bowed and left.

"Who are you?" the scholar asked. "If you have information--"

"Isis."

"Isis?" the scholar gave a laugh. "You think--"

"You think--" I rose above their heads, ignoring the crowd's reaction. "I know!" I let my eyes glow. I landed on top of the Language Codex case. "GET OUT!"

Many left, but many lifted the small devices they carry. I remembered that Chinzari said they capture likenesses but not spirits in the blink of an eye.

I used my heat vision to pierce the see through case. I dropped and flew upward, lifting the stone with my mind.

"Hey!" the scholar yelled. "She's taking the Rosetta Stone!"

"You've had it long enough," I sneered. "I'm taking it back." I scanned the area and held out my hands to hold the Book of Life and the Book of the Dead in them. "Thieves! Barbarians!" I blew a wind that scattered all who remained. I looked at the scholar. "Tell your scavengers I am taking back their spoils!"

I pushed the things out of the ceiling with my mind and headed behind them.  Just then I saw another in the air. It was a man in colors of the ocean, with a cape that swirled around him like fire.  He came after me, and he was fast.

"Stop!"

I turned, sending the objects along. I gave a small smile and read his suit. It was Kryptonian, but the style was a little more ornate than I remember. "No."  I pushed him back sending him into a spin into the stars and made my escape. I didn't have time to fight or negotiate, right now I just wanted to take back these pieces of myself.

@mistress-of-ward @nuggsmum @messyinsomnimaniac @jencanbeyouryengeralt @sweetdreamsofgelato @mary-ann84 @omgkatinka @the-soot-sprite @viking-raider @keanureevesisbae @henryobsessed @summersong69 @sunshine96love @michelehansel @thelastsock @tumblnewby @tenaciousneckpartypainter @rn7rocks @daydreamin83 @ruthoakenshield @musicartmayheminmyheart @kaatelyynn-blog-blog@forallthebrokenheartedthings @alphacancrii @liquorlaughslove @designerwriterchic @tamychm @nikkilynn303 @circesgirl1 @xoxohannahlee @pixie88@fckdeusername @maan24 @kaatelyyynn​ @october505​ @absentmindr​ @introvertedmouse​ @sassy-pelican @griscka75 @kebabgirl67 @its-carlerr

#henry cavill #henry cavill fandom #henry cavill fanfiction #clark kent #superman #superman fanfic #Justice league

[savvynanatravellove-blog]

6 Great Way To Experience London

London, another great city of the world.  It seems that many of us love this city, every time I’m in London I see just as many tourists as I do Londoners.  And why not?  London is a beautiful city and Great Britain a gorgeous country! When asked what I love so much about the city my first answer is always that it’s clean, very clean.  You don’t see streets littered with garbage nor do you see building scribbled with graffiti.

But that’s not all I love about London!  There’s so much to see and do there no matter what your interests are, London has it all.  From history to art, concerts to theater, shopping to dining; whatever you want I’m sure you’ll find it in London.  But don’t spend your holiday rushing from landmark to landmark, of course you must see Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, but take some time to slow down and Experience London!  Here are 6 great ways to Experience London.  You don’t have to to it all in one trip, it’s a good incentive to go back!

1. Book a 30 minute rotation on the London Eye for a bird’s eye view of the city. You can book a standard ticket for £21.20 per person or splurge on a private capsule, prices start at £380 for the Cupid’s Capsule and comes with champagne and chocolates. Save a few pounds and book online.

2. I’m sure you’ve heard of the Hop On Hop Off buses, they’re those double decker buses you see in most tourist destinations.  You’ll find them in London of course, but you’ll also find a Hop On Hop Off boat that sails the Thames all day long.I love this alternative.  There are several cruises to choose from including lunch and dinner cruises.  I like the Hop On Hop Off cruise, only I refuse to Hop Off.  I think it’s a great way to see the city and beyond, you’ll see all the iconic landmarks from the river and sail under the London Bridge. I hop on, find a great comfy seat, and relax.  The boats have a counter that sells snacks and light lunches.   Last time I did this it was on the Queen’s Official Birthday which is always in early June.  We were fortunate enough to see the canon salute at the Tower of London, we saw it from the boat!  No crowds!

3. Spend an afternoon at the British Museum. On my first trip to London we hired a private car and driver/guide, he pointed out statues that are scattered through out the city, and many of his descriptions began with him saying “we stole it from”.  At the end of the day he jokingly told us that many of their “treasures” they stole during their rule around the world, he also told us that if we want to see more then we needed to go over to the British Museum.  And right he was!

At this museum you will see works by many of the world’s great artists as well as artifacts from around the world including giant Moai, those heads from Easter Island, the Parthenon pediments and statues from the Acropolis is Athens aka the Elgin Collection,  mummies from Egypt, the Rosetta Stone, and even one of the mysterious Crystal Skulls! (it’s right across from the giant Moai).

4. Indulge yourself and spend the day at Harrod’s. Yes it will take a day just to navigate the department store much less shop. (I get a big kick out of the doormen who open the doors for you!)

You can gawk at the  £25,000 silverware or the Roll Royce golf cart then wander over the the Harrod’s shop and pick up a tote bag, teddy bear, or other souvenir bearing the store’s logo, those are much more affordable!  You can wander the Food Halls, that’s one of my favorite departments, then stop for lunch or dinner at one of the “fast food” counters down there, or sit down for tea or a gourmet meal at of the restaurants in the store.  And don’t forget to ride the Egyptian Escalator, it’s pretty cool.  For Diana fans have a look at the Diana and Dodi memorial in the store, it’s a small tribute and not really worth a special trip, but if you’re already there it’s worth a stop.

5. Date night – dinner and theater!  Have dinner at one of the fine restaurants around Piccadilly Circus then walk over to see a West End production. The West End is like NYC’s Times Square. There are many shows to choose from.  Last time we were there we saw the Hitchcock classic 39 Steps at the Palladium.  It was great!  Or if you like you can go and see Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, it’s been on for 60 years making it the longest running show in the world!  It’s best to book your tickets online to get the date and time you want.    Before or after the show you can wander Piccadilly Circus.  Lots of shops and fun stuff going on there!

6. Have a meal and a pint at the local pub.  Pick one, they’re every where or ask the hotel concierge where he goes.  Better yet do a pub crawl! Whatever you decide to do have a great time!

Visit here for more details

#experiencelondon #savvynanatravel #museum #bridgeeye