Ethiopia Takes Back Cultural Treasures Following a Century Holding in a German Family
Around Twelve historical items have been formally given back to Ethiopia following staying by a household from Germany for in excess of ten decades.
These treasures, first gathered in the 1920's by Germany's representative to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his wife his partner, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.
The assortment contained headpieces, protective shields and artistic works, each viewed as culturally important in Ethiopia.
"The items continue to stand as a emblem of the lasting and positive connection between Germany and Ethiopia," stated Germany's envoy, Germany's ambassador to Ethiopia.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's assignment in the nation, handed over the items at a event attended by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.
He said that the family's aim to return the items was to "display their appeal with the audience and preserve the heritage and history tied to my parent's birth."
These artefacts were either gifts or buys, as stated by the relatives.
"I want to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for actively demonstrating their sincere appreciation for Ethiopia by diligently maintaining these items and importantly ensuring their homecoming to their legitimate country," stated the official.
The minister added that the pieces would soon be available to the public for investigation and academic study, calling the move a significant step in safeguarding the nation's national treasures.
"Actions persist to bring back ancient artifacts that are located in the custody of private persons and entities all over the world," the minister affirmed.
During imperial control in Africa, thousands of traditional objects were taken.
This call by the continent's states for the repatriation of looted items has been met with a degree of progress in recent years - though several artefacts are only on short-term display.
In the year 2022, the German government was the initial country to give back some of the well-known historical items to Nigeria as part of an effort to address its "troubled legacy."
Similar Themes
- Cultural Restoration Efforts in Africa
- The Impact of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
- International Movements for the Restitution of Looted Artefacts
