Sotheby’s to Auction Gem Relics Linked to Buddha in Hong Kong Amid Ethical Outcries

Photography: Courtesy of ARTNEWS

Hong Kong, May 6, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Sotheby’s Hong Kong is set to auction a controversial collection of ancient Indian gem relics on May 7, believed to be historically connected to the mortal remains of the Buddha, despite mounting criticism from Buddhist scholars and religious leaders over the ethical implications of the sale.

The Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha, dating back to the Mauryan Empire during the Ashokan era (circa 240–200 BC), are expected to fetch HK$100 million (approximately $12.9 million USD). Described by Sotheby’s as “one of the most astonishing archaeological finds of the modern era,” the collection includes amethysts, coral, garnets, pearls, rock crystals, shells, and gold, many fashioned into pendants and beads.

The auction has sparked strong condemnation from Buddhist academics, who argue that the items should be preserved as sacred relics, not commodified as art objects. Critics say the planned sale perpetuates colonial-era injustices and violates the spiritual integrity of the items.

The gems were originally unearthed in 1898 by British engineer William Claxton Peppe at Piprahwa, in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India. The funerary mound, or stupa, where they were found reportedly contained Buddha’s cremated remains intermingled with the gem artifacts, according to historical records cited by The Guardian and BBC News.

Following the discovery, the British administration invoked the 1878 Indian Treasure Trove Act, transferring most of the 1,800 gems to the Indian Museum in Kolkata. Approximately 20% were retained by Peppe’s family and remained in a private British collection for more than a century.

Professor Ashley Thompson of SOAS University of London stated, “This sale perpetuates the colonial violence of the separation. The relics—bones, ash, and gems—were deposited to remain together in perpetuity.” She and others argue that such artifacts belong to the global Buddhist community, not private hands.

Art historian Naman Ahuja questioned the moral authority of the current owners, stating: “Are the relics of the Buddha a commodity that can be treated like a work of art? If the owner is a custodian, on whose behalf are they acting?”

Chris Peppe, great-grandson of the original excavator, responded to the backlash by telling the BBC that the family considered donating the relics but ultimately opted for a public auction, describing it as “the fairest and most transparent way to transfer these relics to Buddhists.”

The live auction at Sotheby’s Hong Kong will proceed on the morning of May 7, amid international scrutiny and calls for ethical repatriation of sacred heritage items.