In a historic move, the United Kingdom is set to loan back a collection of 32 pieces of Asante Gold to Ghana, marking the return of the “crown jewels” that were taken from the court of an Asante king 150 years ago.
These artefacts, named after the African empire from which they were originally seized, will be returned to the country from both the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) and the British Museum.
The items, which include a sword of state, gold badges worn by officials, ceremonial caps and pipes, will be given to Otumfo Osei Tutu II, the current King of Asante, on a three-year loan agreement with the option to extend for an additional three years.
This unique arrangement allows museums, some restricted by law from returning contested items, to facilitate the repatriation of artefacts to their countries of origin.
The loan deal is viewed as a potential model for addressing other contentious cases, such as the Elgin Marbles. However, concerns have been raised about the possibility of reinforcing British ownership claims.
Tristram Hunt, the director of the V&A, said, “We have a responsibility to the countries of origin to think about how we can share those more fairly today.
“It doesn’t seem to me that all of our museums will fall down if we build up these kind of partnerships and exchanges.”
The Asante Gold, taken during conflicts in the 19th century, will be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, the capital of the Asante region, as part of the King’s silver jubilee celebrations.
The artefacts are believed to be imbued with the spirits of former Asante kings, reflecting the rich history of the Asante Empire, which ruled over a significant portion of modern-day Ghana between the 1700s and 1900s.
The British Museum, which is also lending 15 pieces, expressed its commitment to exploring ways to strengthen its relationship with Greece amid discussions about the potential return of the Elgin Marbles.
[Image created via MidJourney]