Originally scheduled for May 7, the auction faced backlash from Buddhist scholars and monastic leaders, who argued that such relics should never be sold. The gems were discovered during excavations at a stupa at Piprahwa, near Lumbini, the purported birthplace of the Buddha. In response to India's concerns, Sotheby's has agreed to halt the auction while discussions continue between the auction house and Indian officials.
Sotheby’s previously spotlighted the 1898 find as one of modern history's most significant archaeological discoveries, given it yielded nearly 1,800 artifacts, including vibrant gemstones and intricately patterned gold sheets. The auction house has stated it will provide updates as talks progress, with promotional materials for the sale already removed from their online platforms.
In light of this major interruption, the ethical implications surrounding the auction of culturally significant artifacts continue to spark debate.
Sotheby’s previously spotlighted the 1898 find as one of modern history's most significant archaeological discoveries, given it yielded nearly 1,800 artifacts, including vibrant gemstones and intricately patterned gold sheets. The auction house has stated it will provide updates as talks progress, with promotional materials for the sale already removed from their online platforms.
In light of this major interruption, the ethical implications surrounding the auction of culturally significant artifacts continue to spark debate.
