The UK is set to return some of Ghana’s significant cultural artefacts, including a gold peace pipe, that were looted from the Asante king’s court 150 years ago.
The Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) is contributing 17 pieces, while the British Museum is lending 15 items, including a sword of state and gold badges.
The artefacts, taken during 19th-Century conflicts, hold great spiritual and cultural importance to Ghana, akin to the Benin Bronzes. The three-year loan agreements, extendable to six years, are with the Asantehene, the current Asante king and the items will be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi.
While some UK museums face legal restrictions preventing permanent returns, these loans are seen as a compromise, allowing objects to be temporarily repatriated. Tristram Hunt, V&A’s director, stressed that this cultural partnership is not restitution but a means of fostering collaboration.
The Asante gold artefacts symbolize the Asante royal government and are believed to embody the spirits of past kings. The return is viewed as a positive step towards healing and commemorating the historical violence.
The artefacts, acquired during 19th-Century conflicts between the British and the Asante, are part of the larger issue of repatriating contested items held by UK museums. Tristram Hunt advocates for legal changes to provide more flexibility for restitution while ensuring oversight through an appeal committee.
Some, however, fear this could lead to the loss of prized items from UK museums. The loan agreements aim to navigate political sensitivities, offering a diplomatic and practical approach to address historical grievances and foster improved relationships between nations.
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