An Oxford academic suspected of involvement in the alleged theft of ancient Gospel manuscripts stands to gain from a government appeal to purchase an important artefact for the nation. Last summer, Obbink put it up for sale at Bloomsbury Auctions in London where, on 2 July, it was sold to an overseas buyer. It is a measure that gives UK buyers the chance to fundraise to purchase the item. Obbink’s businesses, the Castle Folio and Oxford Ancient, have operated in an office above a branch of TK Maxx in Oxford. Aside from the items allegedly wrongfully sold, a number of ancient Greek manuscripts were legally sold to Hobby Lobby from these businesses.

Source: The Guardian January 21, 2020 06:56 UTC