San Bernardino Museum gives back 1,300 artifacts to Mexico.
San Bernardino County Museum Returns Nearly 1,300 Historic Artifacts to Mexico
The San Bernardino County Museum in Southern California has recently returned a remarkable collection of nearly 1,300 historic artifacts to Mexico. These artifacts date back to before the 16th century and include a diverse range of pre-Columbian items used for both common and ceremonial purposes. Among the treasures are jewelry, incense holders, lamps, sculptures, stoneware, ceramic masks, tools, and even musical instruments.
The museum began the process of handing over these precious artifacts to Mexico’s Instituto Nacional de Arqueologia e Historia (INAH) in 2021. The INAH is the federal agency responsible for overseeing Mexico’s museums and archaeological sites.
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The transfer of these artifacts was approved by San Bernardino County’s board of supervisors on February 14, 2017. The museum’s goal in returning these treasures is to build trust and foster fellowship with its community partners. The official exchange took place on September 15, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States and Mexico’s commemoration of the historic 1810 Grito de Independencia, which marked the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence.
“While matters of return can be difficult and weighty, in this case working with the Consulate of Mexico and INAH has been one of collaboration, support, and trust; one that we look forward to nurturing,” said Tamara Serrao-Leiva, the museum’s Chief Deputy and Curator of Anthropology.
The artifacts were received by Mexican Consul Itzel de León Villard, who praised San Bernardino County and the museum authorities for following Mexico’s guidelines for the recovery of its cultural heritage. The Mexican government sees these actions as part of its efforts to combat the illicit trafficking of cultural property and repatriate artifacts that belong to its national heritage.
Many of these artifacts were taken from Mexico before cultural heritage laws were established. After crossing into California, they ended up in private homes and were eventually donated to the San Bernardino Museum, where they have been cared for over the years.
Mesoamerica, the region where these artifacts originated, was once inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Mayans and Aztecs. Today, it encompasses northern Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Belize, and central to southern Mexico.
The collection includes various traditional household incense holders, ceremonial tomb sculptures, jade and shell pendants, abalone bracelets, and ceramic masks used in temple rituals. The museum also returned ocarinas and flutes, which were important musical instruments bridging the gap between the natural and supernatural realms.
Stone tools, such as manos used for grinding food, and projectile points made of obsidian were also among the artifacts returned. These projectile points were used as weapons thrown by hand.
What are some notable artifacts that were returned to Mexico and what is their historical significance?
Eological artifacts returned by the San Bernardino County Museum to Mexico. (San Bernardino County Museum)
The process of repatriating these artifacts involved extensive collaboration and research. The museum’s staff worked closely with the Consulate of Mexico and INAH to ensure a smooth and respectful transfer. This included documenting and cataloging each artifact, conducting research on their origins and historical significance, and arranging for their safe transportation back to Mexico.
For many of these artifacts, their return to Mexico represents a significant milestone in preserving and celebrating Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. It provides an opportunity for scholars, researchers, and the general public to study and appreciate these important historical artifacts in their original context.
Among the highlights of the returned artifacts is a stunning collection of jewelry, including intricately designed necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. These pieces showcase the craftsmanship and artistry of ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Other notable artifacts include religious and ceremonial items, such as incense holders and lamps used in rituals, as well as sculptures and stoneware that depict deities and mythological beings.
One particularly fascinating aspect of this collection is the presence of ceramic masks. These masks were used for a variety of purposes, including performances, religious ceremonies, and personal adornment. They serve as a window into the social and cultural practices of ancient Mexican civilizations.
Additionally, the collection includes a range of tools used for daily life, such as pottery-making implements, weaving tools, and agricultural instruments. These artifacts offer insights into the technological advancements and daily routines of past societies.
Finally, the museum returned several musical instruments, including flutes and ocarinas. These instruments played a vital role in ancient Mesoamerican music and provide a glimpse into the artistic and creative expressions of these cultures.
The handover of these artifacts symbolizes the museum’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and collaboration. By returning these treasures to Mexico, the museum acknowledges the importance of preserving and honoring the cultural heritage of other nations. It also fosters a spirit of mutual respect and understanding between the United States and Mexico.
With their return to Mexico, these artifacts will find a new home in museums and cultural institutions across the country, where they will be cherished and studied for generations to come. This repatriation effort serves as a reminder of the value of cultural heritage and the importance of its preservation for future generations.
As the San Bernardino County Museum continues its dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, it hopes that this act of repatriation will inspire other institutions and individuals to reflect on the importance of respecting and safeguarding the cultural heritage of all nations.
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