The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has taken delivery of 28 exquisite gold artefacts and regalia, originally crafted by the skilled royal artisans of the 19th-century Asante Court. The historic presentation took place during a vibrant mini durbar at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
This event coincided with the centenary commemoration of the return from exile of Nana Agyeman Prempeh I, Otumfuo’s grand-uncle and a revered figure in Asante history.
The artefacts include an impressive array of items such as linguist staffs, ceremonial swords, palace security locks, gold rings, necklaces, and intricately designed gold weights. The gold weights are especially notable, as they depict crocodiles and other symbols rooted in Asante proverbs, serving as powerful visual metaphors for wisdom and resilience. These items are a testament to the ingenuity and unparalleled craftsmanship of the Asante people.
Previously, these artefacts were part of the prestigious Gold of Africa Museum, managed by AngloGold Ashanti in South Africa. The pieces were initially acquired by the company in 2000 as part of the renowned Barbier-Mueller Collection of African Art. This collection, celebrated for its showcase of West Africa’s finest gold artistry, was housed in a historic building in Cape Town before being relocated to the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II played a pivotal role in the restitution of these artefacts. Earlier this year, the Asantehene initiated discussions with AngloGold Ashanti, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of these items to the Asante people. The company responded positively, agreeing to return the artefacts to their rightful home. This marked the beginning of a meticulous deaccession process, which included obtaining an export permit from the Reserve Bank of South Africa. The permit was granted three weeks ago, clearing the path for the artefacts’ return to Ghana.
To ensure the authenticity and proper handling of the artefacts, a dedicated team led by historian Ivor Agyeman-Duah, Associate Director of the Manhyia Palace Museum, collaborated with Edward Michael Ennin, a former Member of Parliament for Obuasi and a key member of AngloGold Ashanti’s Ghana Board. Their combined efforts ensured the successful transfer and preservation of these invaluable cultural treasures.
The return of these artefacts represents a significant milestone in the global movement to restore cultural heritage to its original custodians. Lekgetho Mokola, a Fellow of Yale University’s Director’s Forum and former Director of the Javett Art Centre, highlighted the importance of this development. “Africa is now leading the way in internal restitution,” Mokola remarked. “This return highlights the importance of reuniting artefacts with their cultural roots, enabling communities to reconnect with their heritage.”
The artefacts are part of a larger wave of restitution efforts that have gained momentum in recent years. This year alone, the Manhyia Palace has received a record-breaking 67 restituted or loaned Asante cultural items. Among these are seven artefacts returned by the Fowler Museum at UCLA, which were originally looted during the infamous 1874 Anglo-Asante War. Additionally, 32 items were returned by two prominent British institutions—the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum—further cementing 2024 as a year of remarkable cultural recoveries for the Asante Kingdom.
These newly returned artefacts will be housed in a state-of-the-art contemporary art gallery recently added to the Manhyia Palace Museum. This gallery aims to provide a space where visitors can appreciate the artistic excellence and historical significance of the Asante Kingdom’s heritage. The artefacts are expected to draw scholars, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world, boosting Kumasi’s reputation as a cultural hub.
The official presentation ceremony in Kumasi will be attended by a high-level delegation from AngloGold Ashanti, led by the company’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, Stewart Bailey. Their presence underscores the company’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and supporting initiatives that honor Africa’s cultural legacy.
This landmark event is more than a simple handover of artefacts; it is a profound statement of Africa’s determination to reclaim its history and preserve its cultural identity. By bringing these treasures back to their rightful home, the Asante Kingdom not only strengthens its connection to its illustrious past but also inspires a renewed sense of pride and ownership among its people.
The restitution of these artefacts also serves as a reminder of the injustices of colonialism and the resilience of African communities in overcoming its legacy. As more institutions and countries embrace the call for cultural restitution, the Asantehene’s leadership in securing these returns sets a powerful example for others to follow.
This extraordinary achievement reaffirms the Asante Kingdom’s position as a custodian of Africa’s rich cultural heritage. It also highlights the vital role of collaboration between traditional authorities, governments, and international partners in addressing historical wrongs and building a future that celebrates Africa’s contributions to global culture.
With each artefact returned, a piece of history is restored, allowing future generations to learn from and be inspired by the enduring legacy of the Asante Kingdom. The return of these 28 artefacts is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit of a people determined to reclaim their story.
