Ethiopia Takes Back Historic Artefacts After a Long Residence in a German Family

Ethiopian Treasures
This Collection Includes Royal Headpieces, Protective Gear and Paintings All Regarded as Culturally Significant

A total of 12 historical objects were formally given back to Ethiopia following staying by a household from Germany for in excess of ten decades.

The treasures, first collected in the 1920s by the German representative to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife his partner, were delivered on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.

The collection contained royal crowns, armor and paintings, all considered as historically valuable in the nation.

"The items continue to represent a symbol of the enduring and amicable ties between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," stated Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to the East African country.

Professor a professor, whose parent was born during the household's assignment in Ethiopia, presented the artefacts at a gathering attended by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the family's goal to restore the treasures was to "showcase their appeal with the people and preserve the culture and history tied to my father's origin."

Public Access
The Artefacts Are Scheduled to Be Opened to the Public for Academic and Scholarly Work

These artefacts were either considered gifts or buys, according to the family.

"I want to thank the Weiss family for practically expressing their deep love for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these treasures and importantly ensuring their return to their rightful country," said the official.

The minister added that the artefacts would shortly be available to the general audience for investigation and educational purposes, describing the decision a landmark in safeguarding Ethiopia's historical legacy.

"Initiatives persist to bring back ancient objects that are found in the hands of individuals and organizations around the globe," the minister said.

In the era of colonialism in Africa, numerous of traditional items were taken.

This call by African countries for the return of stolen items has been met with some positive outcomes in the past few years - although a number of items are merely on loan.

Back in the year 2022, the German government was the first country to return some of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to confront its "complex past."

Related Subjects

  • Cultural Return Efforts in the Continent
  • The Significance of Colonial History on Modern African Culture
  • Global Movements for the Return of Looted Items
Danielle Jimenez
Danielle Jimenez

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