Antiquities Dealer Uncovered British Museum's Stolen Treasures

Ittai Gradel, a former academic and dealer in antiquities, died at 61 after uncovering significant thefts from the British Museum. Gradel, who left academia in 2008, dedicated himself to dealing in ancient gems. He first suspected stolen items in 2010, tracing pieces back to a vendor whose existence became dubious. A key piece reappeared on eBay in 2016, linked to the same suspicious vendor. By 2020, Gradel confirmed a pattern, identifying a British Museum curator, Peter Higgs, as a potential suspect through PayPal records. Despite tipping off the museum, no immediate action was taken. Gradel's persistent communication with trustees, notably George Osborne, eventually prompted an investigation in October 2022. This led to Higgs's dismissal in July 2023, followed by the resignations of the director and deputy director. An investigation into the loss or damage of 2,000 ancient items, including goldwork, gems, and glassware, is ongoing. The museum has initiated a five-year plan to digitize its eight million objects. Approximately 650 of the 1,500 initially identified missing or stolen pieces have been recovered.