VMFA Signed Restitution Agreement for David Drake Jug

The Richmond museum returned ownership of an 1840 stoneware vessel to the descendants of the artist David Drake.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Fine Art

Screen-print poster illustration of an antique stoneware jug on a pedestal, representing the restitution of a historical ceramic artifact. — The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has finalized a restitution agreement with the descendants of artist David Drake, returning ownership of an 1840 stoneware jug to the family. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts reached an ethical restitution agreement with the heirs of artist David Drake regarding a historic stoneware jug. The museum restored ownership of the 1840 artifact to the descendants before repurchasing it for its permanent collection.

Why it matters

This agreement supports the efforts of David Drake's family to reclaim his artistic legacy and aligns with the institution's commitment to ethical provenance. It marks a formal reconciliation between the museum and the artist's descendants.

The stoneware jug stands 18 inches tall and features strapwork handles. It is signed L. Miles Dave and dated January 29, 1840.

The players

David Drake

He was an enslaved artist whose pottery and poetry are now recognized for their cultural and historical significance.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

This Richmond institution holds an extensive collection of art and has established formal policies for ethical provenance.

VMFA Foundation

The foundation manages endowments that provide financial support for the museum's acquisitions and operational projects.

The details

After descendants began communications with the museum in February 2026, the VMFA finalized the transfer to ensure an authorized certificate of ethical ownership. The institution originally acquired the piece in September 2017 and maintained it within its collection.

January 29, 1840: The date inscribed on the stoneware vessel.
September 2017: The VMFA acquired the stoneware jug.
February 2026: Descendants began communications with the museum regarding the vessel.
October 7, 2026: The museum signed the ethical restitution agreement.

Industry Dynamics

This agreement reflects a broader industry movement toward transparency in provenance and the respectful treatment of works created by enslaved artisans. It follows a pattern set by established institutional restitution standards for cultural heritage items.

The public can continue to view the stoneware jug at the museum following the completion of the restitution and repurchase process. This ensures that the artwork remains accessible to the community while recognizing the rights of the artist's family.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of open communication between museums and the families of historical artists to resolve ownership disputes. It serves as a model for how cultural institutions can proactively address ethical concerns regarding their collections.