Denyse Berend

Denyse Berend is a French woman who famously bought a notable Persian artifact.

The 22 cm. by 30 cm. limestone relief features the bearded head of a Persian guardsman wearing a feathered headdress, and is thought to have come from the Apadana Palace, built by Xerxes I (486-465 BC) in Iran's ancient capital of Persepolis

In 2005, Iran began proceedings at the High Court in London to stop Christie's auction house from selling an ancient limestone artifact from Persepolis. Following Iran's request, the court delayed the sale of the Persian artifact in London.

Michel van Rijn, an art dealer and antiquities expert said: "If the High Court goes the direction of Iran it will send shivers down the spines of art collectors and museums. It could set a precedent and Iran could claim many more pieces worldwide."

Mr Justice Eady decided the action in favor of Berend. The High Court in London argued that based on French law, Berend is the "rightful owner" of the artifact since, having purchased it in 1974, after 30 years under French law, a 30 year statute of limitations period had elapsed.

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