Thailand Demands Return of Looted Prakhon Chai Bronzes from US Museums

Thai authorities, backed by local activists and US Homeland Security Investigations, are building a legal case for the repatriation of the Prakhon Chai hoard—a cache of seventh- and eighth-century bronze bodhisattva sculptures looted from a temple in Buriram province in 1964. The sculptures, known as Thailand's holy bronze men, were smuggled out of the country and acquired by major American institutions including the Asia Society, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Kimbell Art Museum. Indicted British dealer-collector Douglas Latchford and his accomplice Emma C. Bunker are implicated in the looting. A 1975 letter reveals that collector Samuel Eilenberg purchased a piece from Latchford, later donating it to the Met. The Thai government has submitted evidence to US federal agents, who have powers of seizure. While some museums may seek quiet returns, the article argues for a transparent process. The hoard includes a four-armed Maitreya at the Asia Society and an Avalokiteshvara at the Met, both featured in the 2014 exhibition Lost Kingdoms. The repatriation effort is led by archaeologist Tanongsak Hanwong and senior curator Disapong Netlomwong.