The Fowler Museum delivered seven artifacts, including stolen treasures from 150 years ago, to their rightful owner, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Dr Silvia Forni, director of the Fowler Museum, complimented Asanteman's craftsmanship and artistry.
“It is with great emotion that I stand here today to present to Your Majesty seven historical artworks, some of which were looted from the Palace in 1876 and others that were part of the indemnity the Asante were forced to pay to the British at the end of the Sagrenti War.”
She disclosed that her team researched the artifacts that were received from Welcome Trust 60 years ago and set the tone for their return.
“These works are now here and forever returned to the Asante people. These pieces have had a long and troubled history. They are witnesses to tragic moments in the history of the Asante Kingdom.”
“We are delighted to see them come back to the people of the Palace and the descendants of the rightful owners. As we return these objects today, it is our hope that this will not be the end of this story but the beginning of a new relationship.”
His Majesty expressed gratitude for the return of the artifacts from the Fowler Museum, noting the UK's decision to loan them is a comforting option. Despite years of denial under the British Museum Act 1963, negotiations led to this positive outcome, deemed better than nothing.
The repatriation of the artifacts to Ghana “signifies the return of our souls,” said Kwasi Ampene, a lecturer who helped negotiate their return.
