The East African nation Welcomes Historic Artefacts After a 100-Year Residence in a German Family

Historic Treasures
This Group Includes Royal Headpieces, Shields and Paintings All Considered as Historically Important

Around Twelve cultural artefacts were ceremoniously given back to the Ethiopian nation after staying by a family in Germany for in excess of ten decades.

These artefacts, initially collected in the 1920's by the German representative to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on midweek to the research center at Addis Ababa University.

The set included royal crowns, armor and canvases, all considered as historically valuable in the country.

"These artefacts continue to serve as a symbol of the enduring and friendly ties between Germany and Ethiopia," stated the German diplomat, the ambassador to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was born during the family's service in Ethiopia, presented the items at a ceremony witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the household's aim to return the treasures was to "share their appeal with the public and safeguard the culture and history connected to my father's beginning."

Public Study
The Items Will Soon to Become Accessible to the Public for Research and Academic Study

These artefacts were either gifts or buys, as stated by the family.

"We want to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for actively demonstrating their profound appreciation for Ethiopia by diligently preserving these treasures and vitally guaranteeing their return to their proper country," commented the minister of tourism.

She added that the pieces would in the near future be available to the public for investigation and academic study, calling the decision a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's historical legacy.

"Actions persist to bring back old artifacts that are held in the possession of collectors and institutions around the world," she stated.

During colonialism in Africa, numerous of traditional objects were looted.

The request by the continent's states for the repatriation of looted items has been responded to by some positive outcomes in the past few years - although several objects are merely on loan.

In the year 2022, the German government was the pioneering country to repatriate some of the well-known Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to deal with its "dark past."

Similar Subjects

  • Cultural Return Movements in the Continent
  • The Effect of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Culture
  • International Campaigns for the Return of Looted Artefacts
Ian Russo
Ian Russo

Elara Vance is an interior design consultant with over a decade of experience specializing in contemporary home aesthetics and sustainable decor solutions.