99% Invisible Divining Provenance
4 snips
Jun 1, 2022 
In this discussion, Zeina Dowidar, a producer known for her work on the Kerning Cultures podcast, focuses on the Syrian War's devastating impact on cultural heritage. She unpacks the looting of priceless artifacts and how social media is inadvertently fueling this black market. Through poignant stories, she highlights the heroic efforts of individuals striving to document and protect Syria's archaeological treasures amid chaos. Listeners gain insights into the moral dilemmas of ownership and the urgent need for accountability in the antiquities trade.
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Amr's introduction to archeology
- Amr al-Azm's mother wanted to be an archaeologist.
- As a child, he was frequently taken to museums and archaeological sites, sparking his interest in the field.
ISIS and Antiquities Trafficking
- ISIS recognized the financial potential of looting and selling antiquities to fund their operations.
- They established a clearinghouse to manage the trafficking and sale of artifacts.
Adnan's Undercover Work
- Adnan al-Mohammad, recruited by Amr, documented ISIS activity while undercover.
- He took photos, smuggled them out, and sent them to Amr via his wife in Turkey.