Brooklyn Returns Ancient Chumash Manta Ray Carving to Tribe
Published Date: 4/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The Brooklyn Museum plans to return a special cultural item—a carved manta ray figure linked to the Chumash Tribe—to its rightful Native American owners starting May 26, 2026. This repatriation respects Native traditions and follows careful research and tribal talks. No money changes hands, but the museum is making sure this important piece goes home safely and respectfully.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum to Return Chumash Manta Ray Effigy
The Brooklyn Museum plans to return one steatite manta ray effigy with Olivella shell inlays that it identifies as Chumash to culturally affiliated Native American owners. The notice says this repatriation may occur on or after May 26, 2026 and identifies a connection to the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians of the Santa Ynez Reservation, California.
Other Tribes May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization that can show by a preponderance of the evidence that it is culturally affiliated may submit a written request for this item. The Brooklyn Museum will accept competing requests and must decide the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; joint requests are treated as a single request.
Museum Notes Possible Past Pesticide Use on Collections
The Brooklyn Museum reports there is no specific record of hazardous substances used on this manta ray effigy, but that the museum historically used pesticides containing arsenic and heavy metals on other collections and in collection spaces. Recipients and handlers should be aware of that historical practice when receiving or handling repatriated items.
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