City Scape* by James Mathis. Oil. 1964 courtesy of the National Archives
Spoleto, Italy wants its Etruscan Chariot back. J.P. Morgan bought it many years ago and it has lived in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for years. Now the Italian city wants it returned. The descendants of the Etruscans want the opportunity to reclaim an object that reflects their heritage. There is a debate as to whether it must be lawfully returned because it was purchased prior to the procedures in place that address the trade and sale of antiquities. You can read about this subject on National Public Radio's website @ www.npr.com. The article is dated 8/21/07.
This debate is a great reminder of the power we give objects to represent ourselves. It is no less important in our personal lives. Being conscious to the power of objects to reflect an impression of who we are can add depth and dimension to a life well observed. Objects are language without national barriers. They convey essential facts about how we live and the meaning we attribute to living.
