Atatürk's Silver Sugar Bowl Donated to Anıtkabir, Ending Sale Debate
A silver-plated sugar bowl, once used by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and bearing his initials, has been officially donated to Anıtkabir. The donation ended a public debate over its sale and ensures this culturally significant item remains part of Türkiye's shared heritage.
The sugar bowl, which had been listed in an online auction with a starting price of 20,000 Turkish Liras (around $480), attracted bids up to 30,000 Liras ($720). However, following media coverage, the owner requested the sugar bowl be donated to the Anıtkabir Museum Command instead of being sold. This decision resolved the debate among experts who had argued over the legality of selling the historically significant item. Some experts believed it should remain part of Türkiye's national heritage, while others noted it could be unlawful if registered as part of Savarona's inventory.
The sugar bowl's owner, a shipowner and collector, had acquired similar pieces at auctions in the past. It is not specified who owned the sugar bowl before it was donated to Anıtkabir. Such items could have come from various sources, such as collectors or heirs from Atatürk's circle who later donated them. Without specific details or sources, it's challenging to determine the previous owner.
The donation of the Mustafa Kemal Atatürk sugar bowl to Anıtkabir ensures this culturally significant item is preserved for future generations. The donation also respects Türkiye's protection laws for cultural assets, which generally prohibit the sale of historically significant items outside government oversight.
