Mexican figurines at auction turn out to be national heritage

Three figurines, made in clay in the shape of a dog, were put up for sale at an art auction held by auction house NV Carlo Bonte on 15 March. The figurines date from pre-Columbian times and can be found in the shaft graves of western Mexico. They would date from the period between 300 BC and 300 AD. The saleswoman, Maria Defever from Gistel, bought these figurines 30 years ago with the necessary certificates.

The Mexican authorities have determined that these three statuettes belong to the Mexican heritage, which has been confirmed by the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History. At the request of the Mexican authorities, the three figurines were withdrawn from the auction. The owner was requested to hand over the figurines to the Mexican authorities. She does, too, for free.

Today, the Mexican ambassador will personally collect the three figurines from the owner, at her residence in the Sint Anna rest home in Ichtegem. He will personally thank her on behalf of the Mexican authorities.