Looted Art & Cultural Objects

Should art and cultural objects be returned if they have been illicitly taken under the auspices of colonialism, armed conflict, archaeological looting, or other forms of abuse of power? In what ways are art and cultural objects legally protected from looting, and how effective are these protections? This course will examine the legal and cultural frameworks concerning the protection and repatriation of art and cultural objects, including international law, US and foreign laws, institutional policies, and social norms. This course is part of the Semester in DC Program; it will be taught in person for students in DC and offered remotely for students in Pittsburgh.