Ethiopia Welcomes Historic Artefacts Following a Long Holding in German Hands
Around 12 historical objects were ceremoniously returned to Ethiopia after remaining by a household from Germany for more than ten decades.
These artefacts, initially collected in the 1920's by the German then-envoy to Ethiopia a German envoy and his wife his partner, were handed over on Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the university in Addis Ababa.
The collection contained headpieces, armor and canvases, each viewed as historically valuable in the nation.
"These treasures still represent a emblem of the lasting and friendly ties between the German nation and Ethiopia," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, the ambassador to Ethiopia.
Professor a professor, whose parent was delivered during the family's service in the nation, handed over the objects at a ceremony joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.
He said that the household's intention to give back the treasures was to "showcase their splendor with the people and maintain the heritage and past linked to my parent's origin."
These objects were either considered presents or acquisitions, according to the family.
"I would like to thank Professor Weiss's household for practically showing their sincere affection for Ethiopia by meticulously maintaining these treasures and crucially ensuring their return to their legitimate country," commented the official.
She continued that the pieces would in the near future be available to the public for investigation and scholarly work, calling the action a milestone in preserving the nation's national treasures.
"Initiatives are ongoing to bring back ancient items that are held in the hands of individuals and organizations around the globe," she stated.
During imperial control in Africa, many of historical items were plundered.
The demand by African countries for the return of taken artefacts has been met with certain progress in the past few years - even if several objects are just on loan.
Back in two years ago, Germany was the pioneering nation to repatriate a portion of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to deal with its "troubled colonial history."
Similar Themes
- Cultural Return Movements in the Continent
- This Significance of Imperial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
- Global Campaigns for the Return of Looted Treasures
