Ethiopia Receives Historic Treasures Following a Century Stay in Germany
Around Twelve ancient objects have been ceremoniously restored to the Ethiopian nation after staying by a German family for over 100 years.
These artefacts, originally collected in the early twentieth century by the German then-envoy to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his wife Hedwig, were delivered on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the university in Addis Ababa.
This assortment contained headpieces, shields and canvases, each considered as culturally important in the country.
"The artefacts continue to serve as a emblem of the lasting and amicable relationship between the German nation and Ethiopia," said the German diplomat, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.
Dr. a professor, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, presented the objects at a gathering witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.
He said that the family's goal to give back the treasures was to "showcase their splendor with the people and preserve the heritage and history tied to my father's beginning."
These objects were either considered gifts or acquisitions, according to the family.
"I want to express gratitude to the Weiss relatives for practically demonstrating their sincere appreciation for the nation by carefully safeguarding these artifacts and importantly securing their repatriation to their proper country," stated the tourism minister.
The minister continued that the items would in the near future be opened to the general audience for investigation and scholarly work, calling the decision a significant step in protecting Ethiopia's historical legacy.
"Actions will continue to bring back old items that are found in the hands of individuals and organizations throughout the world," she stated.
During imperial control in Africa, many of historical objects were looted.
This call by nations in Africa for the repatriation of looted objects has been answered with a degree of success in lately - although some artefacts are merely on short-term display.
Back in two years ago, the German government was the initial country to give back some of the famous Benin Bronzes to the West African nation as part of an effort to deal with its "troubled legacy."
Similar Topics
- Cultural Restoration Movements in Africa
- The Impact of Colonial History on Modern African Heritage
- International Campaigns for the Return of Looted Treasures
