[jsheard]

Unless the artifacts were stolen-to-order for a client who wants them as-is. It happens, paintings get stolen and it's not like those can be melted down.

[russfink]

Or stolen for ransom. That might fetch the largest payout of all.

[2b3a51]

Brokering the deal and arranging the transfer of funds would have a very high risk.

[tasuki]

Yes, stolen-to-order seems like the most plausible explanation.