UK Returns Ghana’s STOLEN Asante Gold Crown Jewels…on Loan

In a significant gesture of restitution, the United Kingdom has returned 32 royal artefacts looted from Ghana’s Asante (also known as Ashanti) Kingdom during the 19th Century, particularly during the Anglo-Asante Wars, including the notorious Sagrenti War of 1874.

The repatriation was facilitated by the British Museum (BM) and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), marking a crucial step towards addressing historical injustices.

The royal objects, primarily consisting of 150-year-old golden regalia, were stolen from the Palace in Kumasi and have now been returned on loan for an initial three years, with the possibility of renewal for another three years.

While legal constraints in the UK prevent the permanent return of these artefacts, the loan agreement has been established not with the Ghanaian government but with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the current traditional ruler of the Ashanti people.

Also Read: UK to give back Ghana’s STOLEN Asante Gold ‘crown jewels’….on Loan!

The return of these significant artefacts coincides with the silver jubilee anniversary of Asantehene Osei Tutu II, who initiated negotiations for their repatriation in May last year.

According to a statement from the Asante Palace, the gold and silver regalia associated with the Asante royal court will be displayed at the Palace Museum as part of this long-term loan commitment by the Victoria & Albert and the British Museum.

Upon their arrival in Kumasi, the artefacts will be received by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in specially designed cases. Subsequently, the Manhyia Palace Museum will undergo a three-week closure for installation works and encasing of the artefacts.

These returned artefacts hold immense cultural and historical significance for the Asante Kingdom, symbolising its traditional authority. Many of these items will be showcased in Ghana for the first time in 150 years, offering the public a rare opportunity to connect with their rich heritage.

The artefacts, comprising 15 pieces from the British Museum and 17 from the Victoria & Albert Museum, will be accessible to the public starting from May, allowing visitors to appreciate and celebrate Ghana’s cultural legacy.

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Source: BBC