Douglas Latchford's Looting Network Exposed in New Book
In his upcoming book, 'The Man Who Stole the Gods' (2026), Matthew Campbell uncovers the illicit operation of British dealer Douglas Latchford, who was involved in the trafficking of stolen Cambodian artifacts until his passing in 2020. Latchford's dealings included selling items to prominent institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Emiline Smith's review highlights the intricate network responsible for the supply and transportation of these pieces, along with the museum professionals and academics who facilitated the trade. Latchford regarded Khmer sculptures as luxury commodities, often decapitating and dismembering them before they reached pristine conditions in galleries in New York and auction houses in London.
Key facts
- Douglas Latchford trafficked looted Cambodian antiquities before his death in 2020.
- Latchford sold objects to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Matthew Campbell's book 'The Man Who Stole the Gods' was published in 2026.
- Emiline Smith reviewed the book for Hyperallergic.
- Latchford treated Khmer sculpture as a luxury asset.
- Statues were decapitated and dismembered before being sold.
- The objects arrived immaculately in New York galleries and London auction houses.
- The book exposes the criminal network and enablers in museums and academia.
Entities
Artists
- Douglas Latchford
- Matthew Campbell
- Emiline Smith
- Emma Bunker
- Bradley Gordon
- Martin Lerner
Institutions
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Hyperallergic
- Portfolio
- Government of Cambodia
Locations
- New York
- London
- Cambodia