SOURCE: MyJoyOnline.com
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is set to receive a collection of 28 gold ornaments and regalia created by Asante royal artisans in the 19th century.
These items, previously held in international collections, will be presented at a durbar at the Manhyia Palace. This event also commemorates the return of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I from exile and welcomes Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan.
The items were part of the AngloGold Ashanti Gold of Africa Museum and were recently deaccessioned following extensive negotiations led by historian Ivor Agyeman-Duah. “These artifacts reflect the Asante court’s rich governance and cultural heritage,” said Agyeman-Duah, adding that they include linguist staffs, swords, and gold ornaments.
This restitution marks significant progress in reclaiming Africa’s cultural heritage. Earlier this year, 67 cultural artifacts, including looted items from the 1874 Anglo-Asante War, were returned to the Manhyia Palace. The returned regalia will feature in the palace’s new contemporary art gallery.
An AngloGold Ashanti delegation will officially hand over the artifacts, marking a historic step toward restitution within Africa. “This return is a landmark in addressing colonial legacies,” noted Lekgetho Mokola, a cultural leader. The event underscores Africa’s growing influence in restoring its cultural heritage globally.
PHOTOS: Restituted 19th-Century Gold Regalia to be given to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
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