Greek authorities began an investigation Tuesday into claims that nine Byzantine-era plates on display at three Greek museums were illegally smuggled out of Bulgaria.

The silver plates decorated with gold filigree date to the late 12th century, according to Greek experts. They measure between 26 and 33 centimeters, or 10 and 13 inches, in diameter.

Judicial authorities said the investigation into the Bulgarian claims was expected to last several months. The results will be forwarded to Bulgarian authorities.

The plates are on display at Thessaloniki’s Byzantine Heritage Museum, and Athens’ Benaki Museum and Byzantine and Christian Museum.

Read full article (International Herald Tribune, July 31, 2007)

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Cool, cerebral and formidably focused, Mark Jones hides his erudition beneath an easy affability. In his six years as director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, he has overseen the transformation of a venerable if quaintly eclectic institution into one of Britain’s most dynamic and ambitious museums that is rarely out of the headlines.

As the V&A celebrates a century and a half since its founding in South Kensington, Jones is determined to keep the focus on the museum’s original mission – to bolster the best of British design.

Recent headlines have not always been friendly: the V&A has come under sneering attack over its Kylie Minogue exhibition, and Jones has been accused of dumbing down, pandering to pop culture. Unruffled, he insisted that the V&A, like all museums, must broaden its views and its range of visitors. Next summer the V&A will host a similar glitterand-dresses extravaganza devoted to the Supremes.

Read full article (The Times, August 1, 2007)