New Palace Home in Ghana for Looted Asante Treasures
Strutting peacocks welcome guests outside the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, Ghana, where Asante royal treasures from top UK museums are now on display. The palace, built in 1925 as the residence of exiled Asante king Prempeh I, represents a symbol of reconciliation after conflicts. Descendants of peacocks gifted to the Asantehene by the Shah of Iran in the 1970s flock the area, adding to the welcoming ambiance.
The museum, opened in 1975, showcases the king’s former living quarters on the ground floor, complete with British middle-class furniture from the 1920s. One unexpected display includes a medal awarded to Prempeh II in 1937 by the British Empire. The recent unveiling of items loaned by the British Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum underlines a momentous occasion for the Asante people.
Significant distinctions exist between the UK and US loans on display, with most items being colonial loot seized during conflicts. Notably, the Fowler Museum items have been officially transferred to the Asantehene. Negotiations for the loans were conducted diligently, with strict terms governing the return of the artwork. The return of these historical artifacts to their rightful place has been a long-awaited event signifying a step towards reconciliation.
The museum anticipates a surge in visitor numbers following the loan unveiling, with hopes of doubling the current annual visitor count. The Asantehene used the occasion to express his concerns about the sale of contemporary Ghanaian art to foreign buyers and emphasized the importance of retaining traditional art within the country. This event marks a significant moment in celebrating Asante heritage and fostering cultural preservation efforts.
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Leonie Schultz completed her studies in Digital Media and Design at the Berlin University of the Arts. She focuses on digital installations and interactive art, often incorporating elements of sound and light to create immersive experiences. Leonie has been involved in several digital art festivals and is known for her innovative approach to storytelling through technology.