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South Africa Returns 28 More Asante Gold Artefacts Looted by the British to the Asantehene

Asantehene welcomes a treasure trove of royal artefacts that will enhance Ghana's cultural legacy

Story Highlights
  • 28 gold artefacts have been returned to Ghana after years in South Africa’s Gold of Africa Museum
  • The artefacts were authenticated by Ivor Agyeman-Duah and Edward Michael Ennin
  • This return adds to the growing trend of restitution in Africa

Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has received 28 gold artefacts and regalia, crafted by royal artisans of the 19th-century Asante Court.

This significant event occurred during a mini durbar at the Manhyia Palace, coinciding with the centenary celebration of Otumfuo’s grand-uncle, Nana Agyeman Prempeh I’s return from exile.

The returned treasures, including linguist staffs, swords, palace locks, rings, necklaces, and gold weights featuring crocodile motifs and proverbs, were once housed in the Gold of Africa Museum of AngloGold Ashanti in South Africa. These artefacts were part of the Barbier-Mueller Collection, acquired by the company in 2000, which displayed the finest examples of West African gold craftsmanship.

Earlier this year, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II initiated discussions with AngloGold Ashanti, leading to an agreement for their return to Ghana. The artefacts’ return was completed after receiving an export permit from the Reserve Bank of South Africa three weeks ago.

Historian Ivor Agyeman-Duah and Edward Michael Ennin, former MP for Obuasi, authenticated the pieces. T

his restitution is part of a larger movement of cultural artefacts being returned to Africa, with Lekgetho Mokola of Yale University emphasizing Africa’s leadership in the internal restitution process. “This return underscores the importance of reconnecting artefacts with their cultural origins,” Mokola noted.

This marks the 67th Asante cultural item returned or loaned this year, setting a new record for Africa.

The returned pieces will be displayed in the newly established contemporary art gallery at the Manhyia Palace Museum.

The event highlights the ongoing efforts to restore Africa’s heritage, offering a deeper appreciation for its rich history and craftsmanship.

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