Emperor Tewodros II’s Shield Returns to Ethiopia After 156 Years

In a momentous cultural victory, Ethiopia has successfully repatriated the Shield of Magdala, an artifact of deep historical significance looted by British forces during the 1868 Expedition to Abyssinia. Taken after the Battle of Magdala, which saw the capture of Emperor Tewodros II’s mountain fortress and the plundering of countless treasures, the shield will soon return to its rightful home.

Originally scheduled for auction this past February by UK auction house Anderson and Garland, the shield’s return comes after concerted efforts by the Ethiopian government and the Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET). RET, a nonprofit established by Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie Haile-Selassie, grandson of Emperor Haile Selassie I, negotiated with the auction house to cancel the sale and arrange the shield’s repatriation. Prince Ermias emphasized the shield’s importance, stating, “This shield is not just a historical artifact; it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s history and resilience. Our success in regaining this treasure reflects our dedication to preserving our heritage and honoring our ancestors who fought for our nation’s sovereignty.”

The Royal Ethiopian Trust collaborated with British scholar Alula Pankhurst, an expert in Ethiopian history and grandson of the renowned English activist Sylvia Pankhurst, who notably supported Ethiopia following Italy’s 1936 invasion. Alula Pankhurst commented on his involvement, saying, “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. 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.”

After its final display at the Toledo Museum of Art in Ohio, where it is featured in the exhibition “Ethiopia at the Crossroads,” the shield will travel to the National Museum of Ethiopia. This repatriation is part of a broader movement to return cultural treasures to Ethiopia, symbolizing not only the return of a historical artifact but also a triumph in preserving Ethiopia’s cultural sovereignty and resilience.