Trade in Artifacts

* “Middle America’s Museum Mystery” (Oct. 4) states that the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 “declared illegal almost all trade in historic Indian artifacts.” This is inaccurate. Contemporary crafts become historic artifacts after a period of time. Items legally purchased prior to the date of enactment are legal and should not be categorized as “black market” goods.

The NAGPRA legislation was directed toward federally funded museums. NAGPRA is applicable to the private sector only if eligible items are removed from tribal or federal land after the date of enactment. It is not retroactive!

The Antique Tribal Art Dealers Assn. is a national organization of dealers, collectors, book dealers, restorers and others drawn together by our admiration for Native American cultures. At no time do we condone actions that destroy them.

The proliferation of prices and the marketplace has led to the thefts suffered by museums. To suggest that the only solution is to eliminate the market is ridiculous. If it wasn’t for the diverse interest and donations by collectors and dealers, many museums would not exist today. Communication between the museums, tribes, etc., and the dealers and collectors can curtail much of the thievery.

ROBERT V. GALLEGOS

ATADA President

Albuquerque, N.M.