Getty to return 'stolen' items

Both Greece and Italy are negotiating with the Getty

Two disputed antiquities are to be returned to Greece by the Getty Museum after extensive negotiations.

Greece claims the gold wreath dating from about 400 BC and a sixth Century BC marble statue of a young woman were illegally taken from the country.

Authorities at the Los Angeles museum said a deal had been agreed "in principle" and would be signed soon.

It was unclear if the return would end a Greek criminal investigation over the alleged theft of the wreath.

The wreath was among items bought by the Getty for $5.2m (£2.66m) in 1993.

Museum director Michael Brand said the decision to return the antiquities had been made "on the basis of the Getty's thorough review of evidence", which included information provided by the Ministry of Culture for the Hellenic Republic.

In July, the museum returned two ancient sculptures following pressure from Athens.

Italian authorities are also in talks with the Getty over disputed antiquities but so far no deal has been struck.

Italy's campaign includes the prosecution of former Getty curator Marion True and art dealer Robert Hecht, who are on trial in Rome for allegedly receiving archaeological treasures stolen from private collections or dug up illicitly.

They deny wrongdoing.