Ethiopia Takes Back Historic Artefacts Following a Century Residence in German Hands
Exactly Twelve cultural objects have been officially given back to Ethiopia after being kept by a household from Germany for more than a century.
The items, first gathered in the 1920s by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were transferred on this past Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.
The collection featured headpieces, protective shields and artistic works, all considered as culturally valuable in Ethiopia.
"These items continue to serve as a mark of the lasting and friendly connection between the German nation and Ethiopia," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, the representative to Ethiopia.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was delivered during the household's service in the nation, handed over the artefacts at a event attended by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.
He said that the family's intention to restore the treasures was to "share their splendor with the public and preserve the culture and past connected to my father's origin."
The items were either presents or acquisitions, as stated by the family.
"We want to thank Professor Weiss's family for actively demonstrating their deep appreciation for the nation by carefully safeguarding these treasures and importantly ensuring their return to their rightful nation," stated the official.
She continued that the items would shortly be available to the general audience for investigation and academic study, describing the action a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's historical legacy.
"Initiatives persist to repatriate historical items that are found in the custody of individuals and entities around the planet," the minister affirmed.
In the era of colonialism in the African continent, thousands of cultural items were looted.
The request by African countries for the restoration of stolen items has been met with a degree of success in recent years - though some objects are only on short-term display.
Back in two years ago, Germany was the initial country to repatriate some of the well-known Benin artifacts to the Nigerian people in an attempt to confront its "dark legacy."
Connected Topics
- Cultural Repatriation Efforts in the Continent
- This Significance of Colonial History on Modern African Heritage
- International Movements for the Return of Looted Artefacts
