In a surprising move, Hartwig Fischer, who has been the director of the prestigious British Museum, has announced his resignation. This comes just a week after it was revealed that multiple treasures from the museum’s collection had gone missing. Fischer expressed his regret for comments he made that belittled an antiquities dealer who had alerted the museum about the thefts.
Aug. 25 (UPI) —
Last Friday, Hartwig Fischer, the director of the British Museum, made the decision to step down from his position following the recent revelations regarding missing artifacts from the museum’s extensive collection. The specific arrangements for new leadership have yet to be determined and Fischer will leave his role once the board of trustees reaches an agreement.
“Given the significance of the situation the museum is currently facing, I have concluded that my continued presence would only serve as a distraction,” Fischer explained in a statement. “That is the last thing I want. I have had the privilege of working with incredibly talented and dedicated individuals throughout my seven years here. The British Museum is a remarkable institution, and it has been an honor to lead it.”
The British Museum made an announcement on August 16th, launching an independent review after discovering the disappearance, theft, or damage of several items in 2021. The museum took swift action by terminating the employment of one staff member and intends to pursue legal action as a result. Additionally, the Metropolitan Police has initiated their own investigation into the matter.
It’s important to note that most of the missing items were kept in storage and were not on public display. These items, which include gold jewelry, semi-precious stones, and glass dating from the 15th to 19th centuries, were of significant historical value.
Fischer emphasized the unusual nature of this incident and assured that the museum takes the preservation and safeguarding of all items in its care extremely seriously. In response to the thefts, the museum has implemented additional security measures. However, Fischer acknowledged that the museum’s initial response in 2021, when the thefts were first discovered, was not as comprehensive as it should have been.
In his resignation announcement, Fischer expressed regret for his previous criticisms of antiquities dealer Ittai Gradel, who was the one to inform the museum about the stolen objects being offered for sale on eBay in 2021. At the time, the museum conducted an investigation and determined that all objects were accounted for, as stated in documents reviewed by The New York Times.
Fischer had accused Gradel of withholding information about other missing objects, a claim that Gradel vehemently denied, according to the BBC. Fischer now acknowledges his misjudgment and apologizes for his remarks about Dr. Gradel.
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