Latchford Estate Forfeits $12M in Stolen Antiquities Settlement
The daughter of Douglas A.J. Latchford, who was a well-known expert and dealer of ancient Khmer artifacts until his death in 2020, has agreed to give up $12 million from his estate as part of a civil lawsuit settlement. This lawsuit claims he benefited from stolen gold relics and statues from Cambodia. She will also return a seventh-century bronze statue from Vietnam, which she allegedly bought using illegally obtained money. Ivan J. Arvelo, a special agent from U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, stated that Latchford was a major figure in the trafficking of stolen antiquities, making millions through illegal sales to American collectors. In 2021, his daughter also settled with Cambodia to return over 125 looted pieces. Talks continue with international museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, about items linked to Latchford.
Key facts
- Douglas A.J. Latchford died in 2020.
- His daughter agreed to forfeit $12 million from his estate.
- The settlement resolves a civil case over stolen Cambodian statues and gold relics.
- A seventh-century bronze statue from Vietnam will also be handed over.
- Ivan J. Arvelo of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations commented on the case.
- Latchford was accused of being a prolific dealer of stolen antiquities.
- In 2021, an agreement was reached with Cambodia to return over 125 looted items.
- Talks continue with the Metropolitan Museum of Art and other museums.
Entities
Institutions
- U.S. Homeland Security Investigations
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- ArtReview
Locations
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
- United States