Met Gives Back Sacred God Figure to Hawaiian Ancestors
Published Date: 9/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Metropolitan Museum of Art plans to return a sacred wooden deity figure to its Native Hawaiian descendants starting October 16, 2026. This special item was used in important religious ceremonies and has a clear connection to the Hale o Keawe site on Hawaii’s Big Island. No money changes hands, but this repatriation honors Native traditions and respects cultural heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Met to Repatriate One Sacred Deity Figure
The Metropolitan Museum of Art intends to repatriate one sacred wooden deity figure (akua k̄'ai), former accession number 1979.206.1625, that is connected to the Hale o Keawe site on Hawaiʻi's Big Island. The Museum says a known lineal descendant is connected to this item and repatriation may occur on or after October 16, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation and Process Rules
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for repatriation to Jennifer Day, NAGPRA Coordinator & Community Liaison at The Met (1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028; email: [email protected]) by showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, the Museum will determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests count as a single request.
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