One example that comes to mind is the collection of art obtained by Mellon who got it at a cut rate from Stalin. Then when Mellon had tax problems he “donated” it to start the Natl Gallery. As horrible as this is, there are far worse examples of crooked art dealings.
These objects - many of which are an intrinsic part of the history of the place where they were created - belong in the places where they were created as much as is possible.
“One example that comes to mind is the collection of art obtained by Mellon who got it at a cut rate from Stalin. Then when Mellon had tax problems he “donated” it to start the Natl Gallery. As horrible as this is”
Mellon rescued those works from behind the Iron Curtain, where they could have been destroyed or lost forever, and now they reside safely in one of the world’s premier facilities for the whole world to enjoy. Horrible? Take a hike.