On 3 September 2025 more than 30 archaeological artefacts were returned to Peru, Panama and Costa Rica. The artefacts are from the private collection of descendants of medical doctor and amateur archaeologist Hans Feriz. His daughter had laid down in her will that the artefacts her father had collected should be returned to their countries of origin. The artefacts, which are of great scholarly importance, deepen our understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of pre-Columbian civilisations. This act of voluntary repatriation is an example of how private collectors can play a meaningful role in the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage.
Archaeological artefacts
The artefacts were handed over to the ambassadors of the three countries by the grandson of Hans Feriz. The collection comprises decorated earthenware vessels, bowls and other pottery from 500 to 2,500 years ago. The artefacts, collected in the mid-20th century, have great significance for the countries of origin. They are part of the cultural identity of the peoples of the Americas before the arrival of Europeans, and shed light on the social structures, political systems and beliefs of these ancient civilisations. The repatriation of these artefacts is the fruit of joint efforts by the Netherlands, Peru, Panama and Costa Rica to protect cultural heritage.
A collaborative effort
The repatriation of the artefacts was accomplished thanks to the mediation of Dr Martin Berger, assistant professor at the Faculty of Archaeology at Leiden University and former curator of the Feriz collection at the Dutch National Museum of World Cultures (NMWC). The Information and Heritage Inspectorate played a coordinating role, liaising closely with the embassies involved. The artefacts were identified by Dr Berger, Professor John Hoopes (Dept of Anthropology, University of Kansas) and Dr Adam Benfer (Faculty of Archaeology, Leiden University), working in close concert with Ministries of Culture from the countries of origin.
Collector
Hans Feriz was a Dutch-Austrian physician and amateur archaeologist. During his travels through Central and South America he took part in a number of archaeological digs. He collected many artefacts that he donated or sold in the 1950s to the Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (formerly the Royal Tropical Institute), that awarded him the honorary title of research fellow. After his death, various artefacts remained within the family.
UNESCO
The repatriated objects are of major significance for the identity of the countries in question. In the latter half of the 20th century, a growing recognition of the intrinsic connection between cultural heritage and identity led, among other things, to the UNESCO Convention of 1970. This treaty aims to prevent the illicit import and export of cultural property, and encourage the return of any such cultural property.
In addition, a number of new rules are intended to better protect material cultural heritage. These include the European Regulation to combat illicit trade in cultural goods that came into effect on 28 June 2025. The Regulation requires importers to obtain an import licence or submit an importer statement when bringing in certain cultural goods to the EU.