Oxford and Cambridge universities have agreed to return a collection of significant Ethiopian artifacts that were looted during Britain’s military campaign in Ethiopia in the 19th century. These artifacts, which include royal treasures and religious manuscripts, were taken after British forces defeated Emperor Tewodros II at the fortress of Magdala in 1868.
Historical Context of the Looting
The conflict ended with the suicide of Emperor Tewodros II, following which British troops looted the fortress, taking with them a wealth of artifacts. These items were then dispersed among various UK institutions, including the libraries of Oxford and Cambridge. Over the years, these artifacts have become emblematic of Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage but have remained in the UK for over a century and a half.
The Artifacts in Question
The items set to be repatriated range from royal treasures to sacred texts, all of which hold immense cultural and historical value. Among the specific artifacts is the Kebra Nagast, a sacred text pivotal to Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, narrating the history of the Ark of the Covenant and the Solomonic Dynasty.
Another notable item includes the Magdala Tabots, replicas or representations of the Ark of the Covenant, which are central to Ethiopian religious practices. The collection also includes crowns and jewelry once belonging to Emperor Tewodros II, showcasing the artistic and cultural achievements of his reign with items made of gold, silver, and precious gems.
A significant portion of the repatriation involves manuscripts and illuminated books, offering insights into Ethiopia’s theological and historical narratives through their intricate illuminations. Additionally, silver chalices and crosses used in religious ceremonies highlight the rich Christian heritage of Ethiopia, while royal robes provide a glimpse into the ceremonial attire of the Ethiopian court.
Finally, weapons, such as swords and shields from the royal armory, not only have historical significance but also display the artistic merit of their design and craftsmanship. These artifacts have been part of the universities’ collections, contributing to the scholarly understanding of Ethiopian history, yet they also serve as a poignant reminder of the colonial plunder that followed the Battle of Magdala. Their return marks a significant step towards acknowledging and rectifying historical injustices by restoring these cultural treasures to Ethiopia.
Ethiopia’s Demand for Repatriation:
Recently, the Ethiopian government, through its Heritage Authority, has formally requested the return of these artifacts. This demand is part of a broader global movement towards restitution and the decolonization of cultural heritage, spurred by campaigns like Black Lives Matter which have highlighted the need to address historical injustices. The Ethiopian government is not only seeking the return of these items but also engaging with the new UK Labour government to expedite the process.
Legal and Institutional Considerations
Unlike the British Museum, which faces legal restrictions on deaccessioning items from its collection, universities like Oxford and Cambridge have more freedom. As charities, they can choose to return items with approval from the Charity Commission. This distinction has allowed them to take proactive steps in returning cultural artifacts, following their precedent with the Benin Bronzes to Nigeria.
Why Now?
The decision by Oxford and Cambridge to return these artifacts signals a shift in the academic and cultural sectors toward acknowledging and rectifying historical wrongs. It aligns with a global trend where institutions are reevaluating their collections’ origins and the ethics of their retention. This move is seen as an acknowledgment of the colonial legacy and a step towards cultural reconciliation.
The repatriation of these Ethiopian artifacts to Addis Ababa represents more than just the return of physical items; it’s a gesture towards healing historical wounds, restoring cultural identities, and acknowledging the importance of cultural heritage in national identity. This action by Oxford and Cambridge universities is a significant step in the ongoing dialogue about cultural restitution and the responsibilities of institutions that have benefited from colonial legacies.
