A Modern Legal History of Treasure

This book explores treasure law and practice from the early Victorian period to the present day, covering several legal jurisdictions and notable archaeological discoveries. It reveals treasure law as a ground-breaking chapter in the history of legal protection of cultural property and heritage in Britain and Ireland.

Format: Hardback
Length: 625 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of treasure law and practice,spanning from the dawn of the new science of archaeology in the early Victorian era to the present day. By extensively exploring largely-unexamined state records and other archives, the book offers a comprehensive coverage of various legal jurisdictions, including England and Wales, Scotland, Ireland (both pre- and post-independence), and post-partition Northern Ireland. Through the lens of notable archaeological discoveries, such as the Mold gold cape (1833), the Broighter hoard (1896), Sutton Hoo (1939), and the Galloway hoard (2014), the book examines the law of treasure trove and the Treasure Act 1996. It explores the perspectives of finders, landowners, archaeologists, museum professionals, collectors, the state, and the public, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of treasure law.

In essence, treasure law emerges as a groundbreaking chapter in the history of legal protection of cultural property and cultural heritage in Britain and Ireland. It not only sheds light on the legal frameworks governing the discovery and management of treasure but also provides insights into the cultural, historical, and societal implications of such discoveries. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, legal professionals, and anyone interested in the fascinating world of treasure law and archaeology.

Weight: 965g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031128325
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023