The Higher Committee for Antiquities ordered the confiscation of 12 archaeological pieces seized by Damietta Customs within a wooden furniture shipment exported to Qatar.

In statements on Monday, a source at Damietta Customs said the confiscated pieces dated back to the late 19th century and early 20th century, the era of the family of Muhammad Ali Pasha.

The artifacts are original hand-painted paintings and have the signature of the artist, the source said, adding they also included vases inlaid with yellow metal, a set of brass and marble columns, two porcelain tables inlaid with yellow metal, a metal clock adorned with crystals and a ceramic console.

The source said the committee recommended the confiscation of the pieces in favor of the Antiquities Ministry.

All legal measures were taken to hand over the pieces to the ministry.