Description
Book SynopsisChina is a country that is rich in antiquities, but it is also a victim of looting that occurred during the period from the First Opium War to the end of the Japanese Occupation (18401945) when innumerable cultural objects were lost overseas. The Chinese Government insists on asserting its interest over its wrongfully removed cultural heritage and has sought for the return of lost cultural heritage by all means in accordance with relevant international conventions and Chinese laws. However, securing the return has been, and continues to be, problematic. Little research has been done regarding the question as to whether China has a legal basis for recovery, which is the first legal hurdle that China needs to get over. In addition, China does not have a legal basis for all cultural heritage taken during the period of 18401945. Claims for return without a legal basis are usually silenced or, at best, discussed only but very rarely facilitated.
This book provides an answer
Table of Contents
CONTENTS
Table of Cases
Table of Legislation, Conventions and Treaties
Preface and Acknowledgments
Chapter One: Introduction
Chapter Two: States of Origin and Cultural Heritage
Chapter Three: Availability of a Legal Basis for the Return of China’s Cultural Heritage
Chapter Four: Customary International Law
Chapter Five: Return of Cultural Heritage Looted during Armed Conflicts
Chapter Six: Return of Cultural Heritage Stolen and Illegally Exported in Peacetime
Chapter Seven: Evolving Social and Ethical Norms: Practice of Individuals, Private Museums and Auction Houses
Chapter Eight: Return of Historically Removed Heritage
Index
