Britain has officially agreed to return a collection of Ghanaian gold regalia that was looted from an Asante king in the 19th century, marking a significant moment in a historic loan deal announced on Thursday. The British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London will be lending 32 artefacts to the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, Ghana, 150 years after their theft, as stated in the museums’ joint announcement.
The items, which include a gold peace pipe and a sword of state, are described as having “cultural, historical, and spiritual significance to the Asante people.” The statement further notes their connection to British colonial history in West Africa, with many of the artefacts looted during the Anglo-Asante wars of the 19th century.
The repatriation of cultural treasures has become a contentious global issue, and this move by Britain follows a trend where countries like Nigeria and Ethiopia are seeking the return of looted artefacts. However, some museums claim legal restrictions prevent them from permanently returning contested items in their collections.
In a separate matter, a dispute over the Parthenon sculptures housed at the British Museum intensified last year. Britain’s Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, canceled a meeting with Greek Premier Kyriakos Mitsotakis over discussions about the sculptures’ status. Greece has consistently called for the return of the 2,500-year-old sculptures that were removed from the Parthenon temple in the 19th century by British diplomat Lord Elgin.
The decision to lend the Ghanaian artefacts comes after discussions initiated by Asante King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II during his visit to London last May for the coronation of King Charles. The negotiations between the Asantehene and leaders of the London museums paved the way for the potential return of Ghana’s “crown jewels.”
The artefacts, including gold peace pipes and gold discs worn by officials involved in the king’s soul-cleansing ceremonies, will be part of an exhibition planned for the Ghanaian king’s silver jubilee celebration later this year. The loan agreements, spanning three years, mark a significant step towards addressing historical grievances and restoring cultural heritage.
