Abstract

In the European colonial era numerous cultural objects migrated from the conquered areas to the imperial centres. This became the foundation for some major museums and private collections, and stimulated the art trade. Since their independence, former colonies have requested the return of these objects. Most requests have fallen on deaf ears. One exception was the transfer of a few outstanding treasures from the Netherlands to Indonesia in 1978. One item that should have been sent back is still missing. Framed in the disciplines of History, Legal studies and Conflict studies, I will ...