Rest in Pieces: The Borobudur Stone Buddha Heads in the Netherlands’ Restitution Dialogue with Indonesia
Summary
This thesis investigates the complexities of cultural artifact restitution, particularly the Borobudur stone Buddha heads housed in the National Museum of World Cultures Foundation (NMVW) in the Netherlands. By examining historical and contemporary restitution policies, such as the Guidance 2020 and Policy Vision 2021 which are restitution guidelines written by the Dutch government, the study examines the past restitution cases and policy frameworks to infer the current position of these artifacts within the broader restitution discourse between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
The research identifies the lingering influence of colonial and orientalist attitudes, which manifest in paternalistic approaches and power imbalances that have historically shaped restitution practices. Nonetheless, the recent policies written by the Netherlands show that the country does not only focus on returning the objects, but it also addresses the power imbalances and historical injustices. It emphasizes equal collaborations and the autonomy of the country of origin. As such, the Netherlands is paving a path towards reconciliations.
The frequent lack of comprehensive provenance documentation further complicates restitution efforts, leaving many artifacts, including the Borobudur Buddha heads, in a state of uncertainty within the Dutch collections. Although they may be returned, it is not without conditions. Through an analysis of past discussions and cases, the study highlights the challenges faced by Indonesian stakeholders—government officials, cultural heritage experts, and local communities—in reclaiming their cultural heritage. Despite recent shifts towards more collaborative and equitable restitution frameworks, significant obstacles remain, particularly in cases where provenance is ambiguous or incomplete.
A case study of the Borobudur Buddha heads highlights a broader paradox in international restoration efforts: while global initiatives aim to restore and preserve cultural heritage sites, the retention of essential objects in museums worldwide hinders these efforts. This situation highlights the need for international cooperation and collective responsibility in addressing historical injustices and ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage. In conclusion, this thesis highlights the importance of inclusive and transparent restitution processes that consider the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders, especially those from the countries of origin. By fostering a more just and respectful approach to cultural heritage restitution, with that in consideration a more equitable resolution to the challenges posed by historical legacies and contemporary restitution policies can be reached.