The British Museum's Deceit in the Parthenon Marbles Controversy

Authors

Hannah M. Bartfield, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
Morgan E. Spencer, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
David Rudenstine, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of LawFollow

Abstract

The article challenges the British claim of legal ownership over the Parthenon sculptures, arguing that the documents cited by the British government and the British Museum to justify the removal of the marbles are flawed and intentionally misleading. Through a detailed analysis of the Italian and English documents, the article demonstrates that the British narrative of lawful removal lacks credibility, as the documents contain significant discrepancies and mistranslations that undermine their validity. The evidence presented, including scholarly critiques, conclusively discredits the British claim, emphasizing the need for accountability and the return of the marbles to Greece.

Disciplines

Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law | International Law | Law

Recommended Citation

Hannah M. Bartfield, Morgan E. Spencer & David Rudenstine, The British Museum's Deceit in the Parthenon Marbles Controversy, 43 Cardozo Arts & Ent. L.J. 253 (2025).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cardozoaelj/vol43/iss2/2