Ethiopian Emperor's Looted Shield Returned after 156 Years in UK

Addis Ababa November 2/2024 (ENA)The shield of Emperor Tewodros II, an artifact looted from Ethiopia during the 1868 Magdala War between Ethiopia and the UK, has returned to its homeland from the UK after 156 years. 

The shield had been slated for public auction in February but was withdrawn following pressure from the Ethiopian government.

The ceremonial handover was attended by officials from the Ethiopian Heritage Protection Authority and descendants of veterans who fought in the Magdala War, according to the Ethiopian Press Agency.

Through efforts by the Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET), the shield was reclaimed after negotiations with the UK-based auction house Anderson & Garland.

The shield had been slated for public auction in February but was withdrawn following pressure from the Ethiopian government, marking a significant achievement in Ethiopia’s campaign to recover its cultural heritage.

British forces seized numerous Ethiopian artifacts during the battle, including ceremonial items and religious symbols.