Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2023
Theft of objects from collection stores
The museum disclosed that objects had been removed from its stores over an extended period. The incident prompted criticism of collection security, cataloguing and governance and led to recovery and review efforts.
Restitution and contested ownership claims
The museum faces longstanding claims concerning objects such as the Parthenon sculptures, Benin Bronzes and some Asian and African cultural materials. Critics argue that acquisition during imperial expansion creates ethical obligations to return or share control; the museum has cited legal restrictions and its universal-museum role in responding to some demands.