The Lindemann family, heirs to the fortune of late American pipeline billionaire George Lindemann, have agreed to return 33 looted artifacts to Cambodia. The US Attorney’s Office acknowledged this decision for the Southern District of New York and was warmly received as a “momentous” act by Cambodia. The returned collection comprises statues of deities, angels, and demons from the 10th and 12th centuries. These precious relics were sourced from the ancient capital of the Khmer kingdom, Koh Ker, and the renowned Angkor Wat temple.
Cambodia’s archaeological marvels faced significant theft and damage, particularly during the turbulent civil conflicts from the 1960s through the 1990s. In their quest to reclaim their stolen heritage, the Cambodian government has been actively seeking the return of numerous antiquities, some of which are believed to be showcased in American museums. The United States has repatriated smuggled Cambodian artifacts in recent years. As recently as 2021, the U.S. returned 27 such artifacts, including treasured Hindu and Buddhist statues. Another 30 artifacts, some over a millennium old, were born last year.
The Lindemann family’s artifacts, which they reportedly purchased for over $20 million, are set to be returned to Cambodia later this year. Bradley Gordon, a counsel assisting Cambodia with these repatriations and leading the investigative efforts, confirmed this. Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts lauded the Lindemann family for setting a commendable precedent for other museums and private collectors.
Prime Minister Hun Manet, in a speech before he assumed leadership, eloquently remarked on the profound significance of these artifacts for the Cambodian people. He expressed that these antiquities are not just relics of the past but resonate deeply with their national identity. “They are the blood in our veins and the soul in our hearts that forge the identity of being Khmer… our heritages define who we are and who we will be,” the Prime Minister stated.
In the broader context, the U.S. authorities have diligently worked for over a decade to locate and repatriate Cambodian artifacts. To date, 65 have been returned. There have also been attempts to hold individuals accountable, like art dealer Douglas Latchford, who faced charges related to the sale of looted Cambodian artifacts. However, these charges were dropped posthumously.
The Lindemann family’s decision is significant in righting historical wrongs. As more artifacts return to their rightful home, it not only restores a piece of Cambodia’s stolen heritage but also reinforces the importance of ethical custodianship in art and antiquities.
