Scholar Outraged Over Zendaya's Earrings, Calling Cultural Heritage "Commodified"

Local British media reported on the 21st (local time) that earrings worn by Hollywood actor Zendaya at a promotional event for director Christopher Nolan's new film "The Odyssey" have sparked controversy after it was revealed they are ancient Iranian artifacts.

The earrings in question are estimated to date back to 700 BC, originating from a hoard of treasure discovered in northwestern Iran in 1947.

According to relevant research, these treasures were sold on the antiquities market outside Iran in the 1960s and are now scattered among various museums and private collectors.

The controversial earrings were reportedly acquired last year by the British gallery Baron London from another local jeweler.

Art historian Susan Babaie, who is of Iranian descent, strongly criticized the incident, stating that the artifact is not a mere accessory but part of human world heritage.

She further pointed out, "All meaning has now been stripped from those earrings. The cultural significance of ancient Iran's contribution to humanity has been undermined and distorted by this incident."

The controversy is growing even larger as it coincides with the current geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran.

Professor Babaie emphasized her frustration, stating, "At a time when billions of US dollars are being used to bomb Iran and destroy its historical sites, an ancient Iranian artifact is being glorified at a promotional event for The Odyssey."

In response, the gallery that lent the earrings explained, "There was no commercial intent. Rather, we hoped it would serve as an opportunity for the audience to reflect on Iran's deep cultural history."

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.