The Great Chinese Art Heist

In 1860, British and French forces looted and burned the Imperial Summer Palace in Beijing. Countless priceless artifacts were taken from China and moved to museums and collections in Europe, where they stayed for over 150 years.

But with China back on the rise, it would appear that a new round of looting is taking place.

Over the last decade, a series of sophisticated robberies have taken place across Europe, targeting mostly Chinese artifacts. The criminals operate with military precision and appear to be running rings around museum security, as well as local governments. What’s more, there are rumors that at least some of the stolen artifacts have begun to re-appear in China.

Writing for GQ, Alex W. Palmer tells the story of these brazen heists and the tragic history behind many of the items which are being stolen. Through the lengthy piece, he shows not just how these heists are taking place, but also the uncomfortable position it leaves many museums in. Moreover, he explains the deep cultural divide between museum curators in the West, and those in China, who see these artifacts as their national property.

Centering this all is a single question: is stealing back something which was stolen from you really so morally wrong?