Worcester Art Museum's Ancient Roman Bust Seized By NYC DA Bragg

WORCESTER, MA — The Worcester Art Museum has handed over an ancient Roman bust to the Manhattan District Attorney's office because new evidence shows the piece was likely looted from Turkey.

The museum acquired the bust, called "Portrait of a Lady (A Daughter of Marcus Aurelius?)," in 1966 after being told it was found in southwestern Turkey. The bust is likely a representation of a daughter of either Marcus Aurelius or Septimus Severus and dates to 160 CE.

The Manhattan DA informed the museum in early 2023 the piece was likely looted and trafficked through New York City.

"The Museum was informed by the vendor that it had been found in southwestern Anatolia (the Roman Province of Lycia) that same year. Although the museum conducted its own research at that time, it now acquires objects with greater diligence," the museum said in a news release.

This is the first time the Worcester Art Museum has returned a piece of its collection due to a defect in ownership.

"The ethical standards applicable to museums are much changed since the 1960s, and the Museum is committed to managing its collection consistent with modern ethical standards," Worcester Art Museum Jean and Myles McDonough Director Matthias Waschek said in a news release.