1972–1977

Printed: THE UNIVERSITY MUSEUM

Printed: UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

Printed: THIRTY-THIRD AND SPRUCE STREETS

Printed: PHILADELPHIA, PA. 19174

Printed: CABLE ADDRESS "ANTIQUE"

Printed: TELEPHONE: EVERGREEN 6-7400 (AREA CODE 215)

July 17, 1976Dear David:

I am sorry to learn from your letter of the 12th that you will not be able to come here before leaving the country. I have something to discuss which has seemed easier to talk about than to write. But since writing it has to be, so be it.

Since I wrote you last I happened to remember suddenly that some years ago a Greek Cypriote, presumably named Demetris Michaelides, came to the Museum and talked with me about various matters: lifting, restoring and the like. I believe he did say something about mosaics. My memory of him and his visit are very vague. But I felt it would be a good idea to check with the Director of Antiquities, Dr. Vassos Karageorghis, just to be on the safe side. Vassos wrote back that Michaelides had in fact written a dissertation on the mosaics and that he wanted Vassos to publish it.

I then sent Michaelides a letter, copy to Vassos; I enclose a Xerox of it. Let me add to it the fact that Michaelides was not given written permission to study and publish the mosaics. Of that I am certain. I had no further contact with him of any kind. Since sending my letter of June 9 I have heard nothing from either Michaelides or Vassos. I have waited to write you in the hope that something helpful might be forthcoming from them.

That is the status at present. I have discussed the matter with Jim Pritchard, our Associate Director. He advises, I think very wisely, that we try to arrange a compromise.

It would be good to discuss with you the exact nature of the compromise. I am inclined to say: let M. go ahead with his publication of the mosaics, if Vassos approves. And, if you are willing, for you to go ahead with a publication of the building complex in which the mosaics are located, treating the mosaics fully and freely, as you may see fit. It would have to be understood with Michaelides (a notarived statement, I think) that he would not object or make difficulties about your republication of the mosaics. M., of course, did not have or ask for the evidence of the excavations.

I think it would be wise, if you decide to go ahead with the publication in these circumstances, for you to discuss the matter with Vassos, at the Cyprus Museum. He is very intelligent and helpful and I think you would get very good advice from him. I will drop him a note to expect you.