Ethiopia Takes Back Cultural Artefacts After a Century Stay in German Hands
Exactly Twelve historical objects have been ceremoniously given back to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a household from Germany for over 100 years.
The items, initially acquired in the 1920's by Germany's then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.
The collection featured headpieces, armor and canvases, all considered as historically important in the nation.
"The treasures still represent a mark of the long-standing and friendly relationship between Germany and the Ethiopian people," said Germany's envoy, the representative to Ethiopia.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the family's diplomatic posting in the nation, presented the artefacts at a ceremony witnessed by Tourism Minister the tourism official.
He explained that the household's aim to restore the artefacts was to "share their beauty with the people and maintain the culture and past linked to my father's beginning."
The items were either considered gifts or acquisitions, as stated by the relatives.
"We would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's household for actively demonstrating their profound appreciation for Ethiopia by carefully preserving these treasures and crucially securing their repatriation to their proper country," stated the tourism minister.
The minister added that the artefacts would soon be available to the public for investigation and academic study, terming the action a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's cultural heritage.
"Actions will continue to bring back historical objects that are held in the custody of private persons and entities all over the world," she stated.
During imperial control in Africa, numerous of cultural objects were taken.
The request by African countries for the return of taken objects has been met with some success in lately - even if some items are only on temporary return.
Back in two years ago, Germany was the pioneering state to give back some of the well-known historical items to Nigeria in a bid to address its "complex colonial history."
Connected Themes
- Historical Return Initiatives in the Continent
- This Impact of Colonial History on Contemporary African Culture
- International Movements for the Restitution of Looted Artefacts
