MFA Boston returns 'Dave the Potter' jars
The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston returned two rare stoneware jars by David Drake, an enslaved 19th‑century potter, to his descendants under a landmark restitution agreement that experts say is the first major U.S. case involving works created by an enslaved person. The family sold one jar back to the museum and leased the other so the public can continue to view them; the MFA did not disclose the purchase amount.
Museums and Restitution
Slavery and Cultural Heritage
📌 Key Facts
- Two Drake stoneware jars were returned to descendants in November 2025 under a restitution agreement.
- Experts describe it as the first major U.S. restitution case involving art made by an enslaved person.
- One jar was sold back to the MFA and the other placed on loan; the museum declined to disclose the price.