Art Institute of Chicago returns 12th-century Buddha Sculpture to Nepal

As part of continuous and ongoing research into the provenance of its collection, the Art Institute discovered new details about the sculpture’s history and shared this information with the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C. Working together, the Art Institute and the Government of Nepal agreed the sculpture had been stolen from Guita Bahi in the Kathmandu Valley and collectively decided on its return to Nepal.

“This return reflects the importance of provenance research, as well as the Art Institute’s proactive outreach and collaboration with countries and communities,” said Jacques Schuhmacher, Executive Director, Provenance Research, of the Art Institute of Chicago. “We are grateful to work in partnership with our colleagues from Nepal to return this object to its place of origin, and to collaborate and learn from each other into the future.”

This 12th-century Nepali sculpture depicts a powerful story of divine intervention and protection: during a sudden and violent storm, the serpent king Muchalinda rose to form a protective cave around the Buddha, permitting him to remain in deep meditation. Since 1997, this object has been on regular view in museum galleries and featured in landmark exhibitions.

“This sacred sculpture is a carrier of stories, traditions, and values that have shaped Nepal’s religious, spiritual, and cultural identity for centuries. Its return strengthens the bond between heritage and community, ensuring future generations can connect with their history,” said Mr. Sharad Raj Aran, Chargé d’affaires ad interim of the Embassy of Nepal. “We deeply appreciate the collaboration with the Art Institute of Chicago in making this repatriation possible, and we look forward to building on this partnership through continued dialogue and future collaboration in the areas of cultural preservation, research, and exchange.”