Ethiopia Receives Historic Treasures After a 100-Year Stay in a German Family
Around 12 historical objects have been ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia following being kept by a German family for over 100 years.
These treasures, originally acquired in the 1920's by the German then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were delivered on midweek to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.
This collection contained headpieces, protective shields and artistic works, all viewed as culturally valuable in the nation.
"The treasures still represent a emblem of the enduring and friendly connection between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked Germany's envoy, Germany's ambassador to Ethiopia.
Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, handed over the items at a ceremony witnessed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.
He stated that the family's goal to return the items was to "share their beauty with the people and safeguard the culture and past tied to my father's birth."
These artefacts were either gifts or buys, according to the family.
"I would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's relatives for actively expressing their profound appreciation for the nation by carefully maintaining these treasures and vitally guaranteeing their return to their legitimate country," stated the official.
She added that the items would shortly be available to the general audience for research and educational purposes, calling the move a landmark in safeguarding the nation's historical legacy.
"Initiatives will continue to repatriate historical artifacts that are held in the custody of individuals and entities throughout the planet," she affirmed.
In the era of colonial rule in Africa, numerous of traditional artefacts were taken.
The request by African countries for the repatriation of taken items has been met with certain positive outcomes in lately - even if a number of objects are merely on temporary return.
In 2022, the German government was the first state to give back a selection of the famous historical items to the Nigerian people in a bid to confront its "dark legacy."
Related Themes
- Cultural Return Efforts in the Continent
- This Impact of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Culture
- International Movements for the Restitution of Looted Treasures
