Artifact from Iran intercepted at US airport
Exactly one month ago, on 19 May 2020, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Louisville, KY inspected a shipment from the UK, containing an antique amber glass bottle purporting to be from the 9th-10th century.
An expertise revealed that the bottle was actually from Iran between the 11th and early 13th centuries, but generally, no merchandise from Cuba, Iran, Myanmar or most of Sudan are allowed to enter the USA.
Assistant area port director Eugene Matho: "Indiscriminate vendors are often willing to overlook international safeguards that preserve the importance of keeping antiquities within their rightful community. Our officers are trained to recognise antiquities and ensure their safety and sanctity from illicit traders. CBP is proud to help restore the Iranian cultural heritage." (ah)