ABSTRACT
In a large void of space, punctuated at eye level by a sliver of shelf, are displayed the Parthenon Marbles in the British Museum. 1 The Acropolis museum, meanwhile, displays dazzling white plaster versions of the ‘missing’ Parthenon sculptures nesded between the other, original, sculptures. 2 The legitimate location of the original marbles is a matter of longstanding ethical, political and intellectual debate and with the planned opening in late 2008 of the new Acropolis museum, the controversy will be re-ignited. The fact that such furious disagreement is still engendered by the Parthenon marbles provides a compelling anecdotal example of the many elements that people find important when considering artefacts and art (including legitimate ownership). Amidst the mix, is the significance of experiencing genuine articles as opposed to reproductions — where ‘reproductions are copies made for honest purposes’ (Savage 1963: 1).
