Postponement of gem auction linked to Buddha's remains due to Indian objections
Hong Kong on hold: Sotheby's temporarily halts auction of ancient gems linked to the Buddha's remains
Get the scoop on the latest development! The highly anticipated auction of the Piprahwa Gems, believed to be connected to the Buddha's mortal remains, has been postponed due to a heated disagreement between parties.
Sotheby's, an esteemed auction house, announced on Wednesday that the auction would be delayed "so both sides can discuss the matter further." The collection is in the possession of three descendants of a British colonial landowner, who initially agreed to this postponement.
India strongly condemned the planned auction, arguing that it's highly disrespectful to the world's 500 million Buddhists and a clear violation of Indian and international laws.
The Piprahwa gemstones – shimmering pieces expected to sell for up to $12.9 million - were unearthed by William Claxton Peppé on his northern Indian estate in 1898. The majority of these relics now reside at the Indian Museum in Kolkata, with a smaller portion retained by Peppe's descendants.
Fans of rare and historical acquisitions may still reminisce on the public display of these gems in Hong Kong, showcasing a variety of precious stones like amethyst, topaz, garnet, coral, crystal, and accentuated with silver and gold-leaf stars.
The Indian Ministry of Culture issued a stern letter, asserting that the sacred relics are inseparable from the remains they accompany, according to Buddhist theology and archaeological standards. Separating and selling these relics, they argue, violates religious doctrine and international ethical norms.
Buddhist scholars and religious leaders also denounced the proposed sale as offensive and unethical. At this time, it remains unclear if the auction will proceed or when it might be rescheduled.
For those interested, delve deeper into the rich history of the Piprahwa relics, discovering details about their discovery, legal status, and the ongoing repatriation dispute. Keep a close eye on this story as it develops!
Optional Enrichment
- Did you know? The Piprahwa Gems, associated with the ancient city of Kapilavastu, are considered the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This collection includes bone fragments, soapstone and crystal caskets, a sandstone coffer, and valuable offerings like gold ornaments and gemstones[2][4].
- Intrigued by Buddhist antiquities? Under Indian law, the Piprahwa relics are protected as 'AA' antiquities, making them state property and prohibiting their sale or export[1][4]. India also asserts that the sale of these relics breaches international laws and UN conventions.[2][3]
- The Indian government's main argument centers around the argument that even though Peppe was granted temporary custody during the colonial period, he does not legally own the relics or have the right to sell them[3].
- As the situation unfolds, follow news about any legal challenges, negotiations, or potential rescheduled auction dates.[1][3]
- The Piprahwa Gems, connected to the Buddha's mortal remains and initially believed to be sold at Sotheby's auction house in Hong Kong, are now under consideration for repatriation due to objections raised by India.
- The Indian government, supported by Buddhist scholars and religious leaders, claims the planned sale of the Piprahwa relics, including gemstones and other artifacts, breaches religious doctrine, international ethical norms, and possibly Indian and international laws.
- With the advancements in artificial-intelligence and technology, it remains to be seen if these sophisticated tools can assist in the ongoing repatriation dispute over the Piprahwa relics and the ancient gemstones that were initially planned for display in Hong Kong.
