An attic cleanout in Massachusetts yielded an unexpected discovery – 22 stolen Japanese antiques, some dating back to the 18th century. The artifacts, including portraits of Okinawan kings, a hand-drawn map of Okinawa, and various ceramics, were found in the home of a deceased World War II veteran.
The veteran's family, who wished to remain anonymous, stumbled upon the historical treasures while sorting through their father's belongings. Recognizing the significance of the items, they conducted further research and discovered the artifacts were listed as stolen in the FBI's National Stolen Art File.
“This case highlights the important role the public plays in recognizing and reporting possible stolen art,” said FBI Special Agent Geoffrey Kelly in a statement. “These objects are a vital part of a culture's history, and their return helps preserve that heritage.”
The FBI confirmed the items were indeed stolen during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The Ryukyu Kingdom, which reigned in Okinawa from 1429 to 1879, had suffered significant losses during the war, with many cultural treasures taken. The recovered artifacts likely belonged to this period.
Following proper authentication and packaging facilitated by the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Asian Art, the FBI repatriated the recovered items to Japan on Friday. A formal ceremony to officially return the cultural treasures is planned.
“It is a testament to international cooperation that these artifacts are finally back where they belong,” said Okinawa Prefecture Governor Denny Tamaki.
The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to recover stolen cultural heritage. While the Massachusetts family's father's connection to the artifacts remains unclear, their responsible actions ensured these treasures found their way back to their rightful place.
However, the story isn't entirely complete. The National Stolen Art File still lists several Okinawan antiques missing, including portraits and a royal crown. The FBI's Art Crime Program, established in 2004, has successfully recovered over 20,000 stolen items, and the search for these remaining pieces likely continues.