Asante Gold: Is it Fair For the UK to Loan Looted Artefacts to Ghana?

The BBC reports that the UK is repatriating some of Ghana’s valuable artefacts, often referred to as its “crown jewels,” taken from the court of the Asante king 150 years ago. As part of a long-term loan agreement, 32 items, including a gold peace pipe, are set to return to Ghana.

The arguments

Ever since news of this loan agreement surfaced, numerous Ghanaians who have become aware of it expressed outrage, questioning the fairness and feasibility of lending historical artefacts to their country of origin.

Unfortunately, as per the British Museum Act of 1963, the British Museum operates independently from the government, with governance by a board of trustees. Nevertheless, the regulations outlined in the 1963 act prohibit the British Museum from permanently disposing of items from its collection.

This suggests that the prestigious museums in the UK are constrained, and unable to return looted artefacts even if they desire to do so.

However, the feasibility of this loan arrangement stems from an agreement with the present royal leader of the Asante kingdom, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II. Unlike the Nigerian government, which sought the return of the Benin bronzes, Ghana would likely have rejected a similar deal, opting instead to demand the restitution of the pilfered regalia to its rightful location.

This sentiment is echoed by Tristram Hunt, the director of the V&A, who conveyed to the BBC that when it comes to objects originating from war and looting in military campaigns, there is a responsibility to consider how these can be shared more equitably with the countries of origin today. He expressed that building such partnerships and engaging in exchanges doesn’t appear detrimental to the standing of museums.

In the meantime, Nana Oforiatta Ayim, the special adviser to Ghana’s arts and culture minister, told the BBC that there is a likelihood of people being upset about the fact that stolen items, rightfully belonging to them, will not be permanently returned but instead placed on loan.

“We know the objects were stolen in violent circumstances, we know the items belong to the Asante people,” she said.

She further emphasised that the stolen artefacts in the UK carry immense spiritual and cultural importance for Ghanaians. Consequently, their return to the country is viewed as a source of healing from the historical impact of colonial violence.

“They’re not just objects, they have spiritual importance as well. They are part of the soul of the nation. It’s pieces of ourselves returning.” And adds that the loan is “a good starting point” and “a sign of some kind of healing and commemoration for the violence that happened”.

The facts

The artefacts slated for repatriation to Ghana were obtained during conflicts in the 19th century and hold immense spiritual and cultural importance for the country, akin to the significance of the Benin Bronzes.

Under three-year loan agreements, extendable to six years, the arrangements have been made with the Asantehene, the present Asante king and the items are planned for display at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi to commemorate the silver jubilee of the leader as the king of the Asantes on May 6, 2024.

In a landmark development, the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) is set to furnish Ghana with 17 pieces, while the British Museum is contributing 15 items, encompassing significant artefacts such as a sword of state and gold badges.