Sotheby's has officially suspended its planned auction of hundreds of sacred jewels connected to the remains of the Buddha, following a legal threat from the Indian government. The auction, which featured the Piprahwa Gems, revered as one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries of recent times, was set to take place on May 7 in Hong Kong but has been delayed to facilitate discussions between involved parties.
Criticism surrounding the auction has arisen from various Buddhist scholars and monastic leaders, who voiced that the sale is disrespectful to the global Buddhist community. India’s government responded by asserting that the relics symbolize an "inalienable religious and cultural heritage" and that putting them up for sale contravenes both Indian law and international agreements, including United Nations conventions. In a correspondence with Sotheby’s, the government expressed that doing so would offend not just Indian sentiments but the worldwide Buddhist population.
The gems, unearthed roughly 130 years ago by British estate manager William Claxton Peppé in northern India, were found alongside bone fragments believed to belong to the Buddha. These relics, known to belong to the Historical Buddha from the Mauryan Empire during the Ashokan Era (circa 240-200 BCE), have since attracted significant historical interest, prompting Sotheby's to describe the original discovery as one of the most extraordinary in modern archaeology.
Following a high-level meeting between Indian officials and Sotheby's representatives, the auction house announced via email that the postponement was made with the consent of the consignors. They assured updates would be shared as discussions progress. Additionally, the auction webpage was taken down from Sotheby’s site, effectively halting any promotional efforts surrounding the sale.
The collection, which comprises nearly 1,800 gems, including various precious stones like rubies and sapphires, was discovered in a stupa in Piprahwa, close to the traditionally known birthplace of the Buddha in Lumbini. The site, now part of Uttar Pradesh, has drawn attention for its historical significance and artifacts that date back nearly 2,000 years.
