The Cleveland Museum of Art returns a 13th-Century Manuscript Leaf to Italy

Thursday, October 31, 2024
The Cleveland Museum of Art returns a 13th-Century Manuscript Leaf to Italy

The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Italy (the “ministry”) and the Cleveland Museum of Art (“CMA”) today announced that, working collaboratively, they have agreed to the transfer of a 13th-century manuscript leaf representing the letter “A” once part of a choral book located at a church near Siena.

The work was acquired by the CMA in 1952. Based on information provided by the ministry as well as the CMA’s own research, the CMA determined that the work should be transferred to the Republic of Italy. 
 
Dr. Paolo D’Angeli, head of the department for general administration of the ministry, commented: “We appreciate the care that the Cleveland Museum of Art has taken to preserve this manuscript over many years and their willingness to work with the ministry to determine the best outcome for all concerned. The decision to do so reflects the many years of cooperation between the ministry and the museum.” 
 
Dr. William M. Griswold, director of the Cleveland Museum of Art, noted: “We are pleased with the outreach and open dialogue, and I look forward to future cultural cooperation with our colleagues in the Ministry of Culture.”