The Shield of Magdala, an artifact of immense cultural and historical significance, was looted during the British Expedition to Abyssinia in 1868, following the Battle of Magdala.
For over 150 years, this shield remained in foreign hands, a poignant symbol of Ethiopia’s contested history. Thanks to the efforts of the Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET), this artifact is returning home, marking a significant moment in Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its cultural identity and restore its stolen heritage.
The shield, one of numerous artifacts seized by British troops following the battle of Magdala in 1868, holds immense cultural value, and was acquired through negotiations with the UK-based Anderson & Garland auction house. The shield had been slated for public auction in February, but was withdrawn following pressure from the Ethiopian government. Under Prince Ermias' direction, the RET took proactive steps to negotiate the shield's return to Ethiopia, in keeping with the organization's mission to protect and celebrate the nation's cultural treasures.
"This shield is not just a historical artifact; it is a symbol of Ethiopia's history and resilience," said Prince Ermias. "Our efforts and success in regaining this treasure is a testament to our commitment to preserve our heritage and honor our ancestors who fought for our nation's sovereignty."
The Battle of Magdala, fought in 1868, was a significant event in Ethiopian and British history. Following the capture of Magdala, the mountain fortress of Emperor Tewodros II, British forces looted hundreds of artifacts, including the Emperor's crown, ceremonial crosses, chalices and weapons.
To secure the return of the shield, the RET collaborated with Alula Pankhurst, a renowned British scholar with an expertise in Ethiopian history. Pankhurst is the grandson of Sylvia Pankhurst, an English activist who became devoted to Ethiopia following its invasion by Italy in 1936.
"It has been an honor to work with Prince Ermias and the Royal Ethiopian Trust to return this significant piece of history to its people," said Pankhurst. "Our families have long been dedicated to safeguarding Ethiopia's heritage, and ensuring that this shield returns to the Ethiopian people is a proud continuation of that legacy."
Before it returns to Ethiopia, the shield will travel to Toledo, Ohio, where it will be on display at the Toledo Museum of Art, October 4th- 27th, concurrently with the "Ethiopia at a Crossroads" exhibit. The Magdala Shield will make its final journey home in November and will be housed in the National Museum of Ethiopia, where it will be on display for the Ethiopian people and visitors from around the world.
Main Image: The Shield of Magdala
Anna Melnykova, "Palace of Labor (palats praci), architector I. Pretro, 1916", shot with analog Canon camera, 35 mm Fuji film in March 2022.
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