Stolen Chinese Art Row

Chinese officials have voiced anger over the planned sale of two national treasures in an auction of art amassed by the late French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The two animal sculptures that once decorated the Old Summer Palace in Beijing were stolen in 1860, when French and British troops destroyed the famous complex. China's repeated requests for the two art pieces to be returned have so far been rejected. The sculptures are expected to fetch some 10 million euros each, a price China rejects as unacceptable. The art auction will be held in February. (For full source and full article click the Headline). Irish Art