UK to Loan Ghana’s “Crown Jewels,” Looted 150 Years Ago, Back to Asante King

The United Kingdom has agreed to loan back to Ghana a collection of Asante gold artefacts, commonly referred to as the “Crown Jewels,” that were looted 150 years ago from the court of the Asante king. The three-year loan agreements, with an option to extend for a further three years, have been made with Otumfo Osei Tutu II, the current Asante king, also known as the Asantehene, who attended the coronation of King Charles last year.

The artefacts, which symbolize the Asante royal government and are believed to embody the spirits of past kings, hold great cultural and historical significance for Ghana. Their return is seen as a positive step towards healing and commemorating the historical violence associated with their looting during 19th-century conflicts between the British and the Asante.

Tristram Hunt, director of the V&A, emphasized the importance of sharing such objects more fairly today, especially those with origins in war and looting. He advocated for legal changes to provide more flexibility for restitution while ensuring oversight through an appeal committee.

However, concerns have been raised that such loans could be used to imply acceptance of the UK’s ownership of the artefacts by the countries laying claim to them. To address these concerns, the loan agreements aim to navigate political sensitivities, offering a diplomatic and practical approach to addressing historical grievances and fostering improved relationships between nations.

The items, including a sword of state and gold badges worn by officials charged with cleansing the soul of the king, will be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, the capital of the Asante region, to celebrate the Asantehene’s silver jubilee.

Nana Oforiatta Ayim, special adviser to Ghana’s culture minister, expressed the spiritual and national significance of the artefacts, referring to them as part of the soul of the nation. She viewed the loan as a positive step towards healing and commemoration, marking the anniversary of the looting.

The return of these artefacts is part of a larger issue of repatriating contested items held by UK museums. While some museums are banned by law from permanently returning contested items, such loan deals are seen as a way to allow objects to return to their countries of origin.

The British Museum is also participating in the initiative by returning on loan a total of 15 items, some of which were looted during a later conflict in 1895-96, including a sword of state known as the Mpomponsuo.