Ethiopia Receives Cultural Artefacts Following a Century Residence in a German Family
Exactly 12 historical artefacts were formally restored to the Ethiopian nation after remaining by a German family for over ten decades.
The items, initially acquired in the 1920's by Germany's then-envoy to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse his partner, were transferred on Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.
The set included headpieces, protective shields and artistic works, all regarded as historically significant in the country.
"The artefacts continue to represent a emblem of the lasting and positive connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," remarked Germany's envoy, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, presented the artefacts at a ceremony joined by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.
He said that the family's goal to return the treasures was to "share their beauty with the people and safeguard the culture and history linked to my father's birth."
The items were either presents or acquisitions, as stated by the family.
"We would like to thank Professor Weiss's family for practically showing their sincere love for the nation by carefully maintaining these artifacts and crucially ensuring their homecoming to their rightful homeland," said the tourism minister.
The minister noted that the items would shortly be made accessible to the public for research and educational purposes, terming the action a milestone in safeguarding the nation's national treasures.
"Actions are ongoing to return historical items that are found in the possession of individuals and institutions around the globe," the minister stated.
During colonial rule in the African continent, numerous of traditional objects were looted.
This demand by African countries for the repatriation of stolen artefacts has been met with a degree of progress in the past few years - though some objects are only on loan.
Back in two years ago, the German government was the first country to return a portion of the famous Benin artifacts to Nigeria in a bid to deal with its "dark colonial history."
Connected Themes
- Cultural Restoration Initiatives in the Continent
- This Effect of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Culture
- International Campaigns for the Return of Stolen Artefacts
