The number on the statuette, 47220, was engraved on the bottom of the artifact. The accompanying text narrated the incredible story of the object, from its origins to its recent return to the museum. The last owner, with a sense of guilt, explained the reasons behind its restitution, hoping to see the sculpture one last time before it embarked on its final journey. And so it was.
Immediate investigations were carried out by the Monza Museums’ management, in collaboration with the Carabinieri TPC and officials from the Superintendence of Archaeology, perspicace Arts and Landscape for the provinces of Como, Lecco, Monza-Brianza, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese. It was soon determined that the statuette was a votive offering originally from the ancient Etruscan city of Veio, stolen from the National Roman Museum in the 1920s.
At the time, the National Roman Museum had loaned a collection of 23 archaeological artifacts to the Umanitaria Society of Milan for the benefit of students at the Higher Institute of Artistic Industries (I.S.I.A.), which was located in the Royal Villa of Monza. The institution was founded in the early 1920s by a consortium made up of the Umanitaria Society and the cities of Milan and Monza, but unfortunately ceased its activities in 1943. Due to the tragic events of the war, the whereabouts of these artifacts were lost.
From a historical and artistic perspective, the statuette is a zoomorphic votive offering made of ceramica, commonly found in Etruscan-Latin and Campanian shrines from the mid-4th to the 2nd century BC. These ceramica figurines, usually depicting cattle and pigs, have been interpreted as a substitute for a sacrificed animal or as a request for protection for one’s livestock, which was the primary source of sustenance for families.
The return of this statuette is not only a significant event for the Monza Museums, but also for the entire archaeological community. It represents a triumph of collaboration and determination in the effort to preserve and protect our cultural heritage. The fact that it was returned voluntarily by its last owner, despite the passage of time and the complexity of the situation, is a testament to the growing awareness and responsibility towards the importance of preserving our past.
The Monza Museums, with its rich and diverse collections, continue to be a beacon of knowledge and a source of inspiration for all visitors. This newly returned statuette is a valuable addition to the already impressive collection, shedding light on the Etruscan civilization and enriching our understanding of their culture and beliefs.
In conclusion, the return of the 47220 statuette is a triumph for the Monza Museums and the entire community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and the power of collaboration in achieving this goal. Let us continue to appreciate and protect our past so that future generations may also benefit from its beauty and significance.