The Netherlands has returned a 3,500-year-old Egyptian sculpture to Egypt after investigators confirmed it was looted and illegally exported during the unrest that followed the 2011 Arab Spring.
The ancient artefact, a stone head from a block statue, resurfaced at a Dutch art fair in Maastricht in 2022, triggering an investigation by Dutch police and the country’s cultural heritage inspectorate. Authorities concluded in 2025 that the sculpture had been unlawfully removed from Egypt and later circulated on the international art market.
Experts say the sculpture originated from Luxor, in southern Egypt, and depicts a high-ranking official who served during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III (1479–1425 BC), one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful rulers.
The artefact was seized at the art fair and later surrendered voluntarily by Sycomore Ancient Art, the dealer that had acquired the piece but raised concerns about its unclear provenance.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Dutch Culture Minister Gouke Moes said the return reflects the country’s commitment to ethical cultural stewardship.
“Our policy is to return what doesn’t belong to us and to return it always to the rightful cultural group or country,” Moes said.
Egypt’s ambassador to the Netherlands, Emad Hanna, welcomed the decision, noting that Egypt actively monitors global auctions and exhibitions to identify stolen artefacts.
“It means a lot to us when it comes to tourism and the economy,” Hanna said. “When tourists come to Egypt to see these things, it definitely makes a difference.”
Egypt has not yet announced where or when the sculpture will be displayed.
