Sotheby's Postpones Controversial Buddha Jewels Auction Amidst India’s Legal Threat

Sotheby’s has decided to postpone a highly anticipated auction of sacred jewels linked to the Buddha's remains after facing a legal threat from the Indian government, which deemed the sale a violation of cultural heritage laws and an affront to the global Buddhist community.

Sotheby's, a prestigious auction house, has announced the postponement of a significant auction in Hong Kong involving hundreds of sacred jewels connected to the remains of the Buddha. This decision came after the Indian government threatened legal action, arguing that the items represent an "inalienable religious and cultural heritage" of both India and the worldwide Buddhist community. The scheduled auction, which was set for May 7, garnered substantial criticism from Buddhist scholars and monastic leaders who advocated against the sale, deeming it a serious ethical violation.

Dating back nearly 130 years, the artifacts known as the Piprahwa Gems were unearthed by British estate manager William Claxton Peppé in northern India, alongside bone fragments thought to belong to the Buddha himself. The auction house had previously heralded this collection from the Mauryan Empire and Ashokan Era, circa 240-200 BCE, as one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries in modern times.

In an official correspondence just two days prior to the planned auction, the Indian government emphasized that the relics' sale would violate both Indian and international laws, including United Nations conventions regarding cultural heritage. Consequently, a high-level Indian delegation engaged in discussions with representatives from Sotheby’s on Tuesday to resolve the issue.

In a statement issued via email, Sotheby’s confirmed that they have agreed to postpone the auction to facilitate further discussions with the Indian authorities. They indicated that updates regarding the situation would be provided as appropriate. As of Wednesday, Sotheby’s removed any mention of the jewels from its auction house and the promotional webpage related to the event has been taken down.

The gems, consisting of an impressive collection of nearly 1,800 pieces, including rubies, topaz, and sapphires, were discovered within a brick chamber at a stupa located at Piprahwa, near Lumbini, recognized as the birthplace of the Buddha. The site's historical significance, attributed to its ancient inscriptions and consecration nearly two millennia ago, has led to ongoing ethical debates regarding the propriety of selling such sacred artifacts.