A woman in Washington, D.C., unknowingly purchased a Mayan vase worth over a thousand years old for $3.99 from a thrift store. Anna Lee Dozier, who works for Christian Solidarity Worldwide, recognized the vase as potentially Mexican and old, but initially thought it was just a tourist souvenir. Years later, after visiting the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, she realized the artifact’s significance and contacted the Mexican embassy for guidance. The embassy connected her with experts who authenticated the vase as a Mayan artifact from the Classic Period, specifically from Southeastern Mexico.
The Mexican embassy had established procedures in 2021 for situations like this involving the potential return of Mexican cultural artifacts. After confirming the authenticity of the vase, they requested its return to Mexico. Dozier packed the vase in a food-delivery box and drove it to the Mexican Cultural Institute in D.C. for its repatriation ceremony with the Mexican ambassador. She expressed gratitude for being able to find and care for the vase but felt that its rightful place was back in Mexico. Additionally, the Mexican government repatriated 20 cultural artifacts from the United States that week, showcasing their ongoing efforts to reclaim Mexican archaeological treasures.
In the ceremony at the Mexican Cultural Institute, Ambassador Moctezuma Barragan expressed appreciation for Dozier’s recognition of the country’s cultural heritage. Dozier emphasized that she never considered selling or auctioning the priceless artifact, as its cultural value far exceeds its monetary worth. The vase has now been returned to Mexico, where it will be safeguarded and appreciated as part of the nation’s heritage. With three young boys at home, Dozier felt a sense of relief that the vase was out of her care, as she was concerned about accidentally damaging an ancient artifact that had survived for over two thousand years.
The vase’s repatriation is part of a larger initiative by the Mexican government to reclaim and protect its archaeological and historical treasures. Over recent years, approximately 13,500 objects of Mexican cultural importance have been repatriated from abroad. The Mexican embassy and experts work to identify and authenticate artifacts, facilitating their return to Mexico. Through such efforts, the Mexican government aims to combat the illicit sale of Mexican cultural heritage and ensure that valuable artifacts are preserved within the country. Dozier’s experience highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting cultural heritage, even when it is unknowingly acquired.
