‘Illegal’ antique ivory removed from Royal show
THE Queen is facing embarrassment after an antique ivory gong was removed from a new exhibition at Sandringham House amid fears it was being displayed illegally.
The Mail on Sunday revealed earlier this month how the gong, hanging between two elephant tusks, was among treasures being shown to mark the 70th anniversary of Indian independence.
But Norfolk Police is looking at claims by wildlife law experts that the artefact should be classified as ‘unworked’ ivory under European Union rules because the tusks are largely in their natural state and not carved.
The Control of Trade in Endangered Species act bans the sale of unworked ivory or its display for commercial gain, even if it predates 1947, unless it has a special exemption certificate.
Kim McDonald, a senior partner at Taxidermy Law, who advises auction houses and museums, said Sandringham was gaining commercially from the display because it charges £15.50 for access to the main house and the gardens.
Breaching the rule carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail and an unlimited fine, although there are no restrictions on displaying worked ivory, such as carvings made out of tusks.
The gong – used to summon Royal guests to dinner – was presented to the Prince of Wales before he became Edward VII during his state visit to India in 1875-76.
A spokesman for the Animal and Plant Health Agency, which issues exemption certificates, said she was unable to confirm or deny if the gong had been given one.
Sandringham and Norfolk Police both refused to comment.