Federal Register #2026-18964

Notice of Intended Repatriation of a Sacred Object by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

This notice concerns the intended repatriation of a sacred cultural object by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY, under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). - Government Buyer: - Department of the Interior - National Park Service - OEMs and Vendors: - The Metropolitan Museum of Art (holder of the item) - Products/Services Requested: - Repatriation of a wooden deity figure (akua kaai) - Part number: 1979.206.1625 - Quantity: 1 - Description: Sacred wooden deity figure in Kona style, used in ceremonial rites at Hale o Keawe site, Big Island of Hawai'i - Unique/Notable Requirements: - The item is identified as a sacred object with a known lineal descendant - No hazardous substances were used in treatment - Notice invites written requests for repatriation from lineal descendants, Indian Tribes, or Native Hawaiian organizations - No products or services are being procured or awarded; this is a repatriation notice for a specific cultural object

Description

In accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) intends to repatriate a certain cultural item that meets the definition of a sacred object and has a known lineal descendant. The item is a wooden deity figure connected to the Hale o Keawe site in Hawai'i, used in ceremonial rites. Repatriation may occur on or after October 16, 2026. Requests for repatriation can be submitted by lineal descendants or affiliated tribes or organizations.

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