China Vows Reprisal Against Auction House

from National Public Radio

Christie's, the international auction house, just sold two ancient Chinese bronze sculptures in France that were part of the art collection owned by late designer Yves Saint Laurent. Beijing says the pieces should have been returned to China, where they were looted in the 19th century, and it demanded that the auction be canceled. But Christie's went ahead and sold the items for $36 million. Beijing has ordered officials to tighten inspection of items that the auction house brings in and out of China, making it harder for the company to do business there.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, February 26, 2009