Zendaya, star of The Odyssey, faced criticism for wearing 3,000-year-old Iranian gold earrings during a London press event. The earrings, part of the Ziwiye hoard, were remounted with diamonds and 18-karat gold by jeweler Glenn Spiro. Critics argue the artifacts may have been looted and question the ethical implications of using them as fashion accessories.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
Zendaya wore the earrings during a promotional event for The Odyssey, where she plays the Greek goddess Athena. The earrings, sourced from the Ziwiye hoard, were looted in 1947 and later smuggled out of Iran. Critics, including archaeologists and historians, argue the use of real artifacts is problematic, citing concerns over cultural appropriation and the antiquities black market.
Deeper Dive & Context
Origins of the Earrings
The gold disc medallions originate from the Ziwiye hoard, discovered near Ziwiyeh Castle in Iran. The hoard was looted by shepherds in 1947, with many artifacts later smuggled out of the country. The earrings were remounted by jeweler Glenn Spiro as part of his "Materials of the Old World" series, which incorporates ancient artifacts into modern jewelry.
Criticism and Ethical Concerns
Dr. Z the Archaeologist, an online content creator with a doctorate in archaeology, criticized the use of real artifacts, suggesting they may have been sourced from the black market. She argued that the decision to use real jewelry instead of replicas stems from elitism and commodification of cultural heritage. Iranian art historian Sussan Babaie called the use of the earrings "shocking," stating that ancient artifacts should not be treated as fashion accessories.
Defense and Justification
Barron London, the jewelry dealer who provided the earrings, defended their use, stating that the gold discs were held in a non-invasive setting that did not alter or damage the original objects. The jeweler emphasized the historical significance of the artifacts and their role in showcasing ancient artistry.
Public and Social Media Reaction
Social media users expressed outrage, with some criticizing the "disrespect" to Iranian cultural heritage. Others questioned the ethical implications of using looted artifacts for promotional purposes. The debate highlights broader tensions over the commodification of ancient artifacts and the responsibilities of celebrities in cultural representation.