Netherlands returns six colonial artifacts to Sri Lanka
Colombo: On December 5, 2023, the Netherlands returned six cultural artifacts to Sri Lanka, marking a significant step in acknowledging and addressing its colonial past. The artifacts, which include a cannon, a ceremonial sword, and two guns, were taken from Kandy, the last kingdom of ancient Sri Lanka, in 1765 during a Dutch siege of the palace.
The return of these artifacts is the result of years of negotiations between the two countries. It represents a growing international trend of museums and governments returning artifacts that were looted or acquired through colonial conquest.
Artifacts returned:
- A cannon, known as the "Lion of Kandy," which was cast in 1632.
- A ceremonial sword, known as the "Sword of Kandyan Kings," which is decorated with precious stones.
- Two guns, known as the "Kandyan Muskets," which were used by the royal guard.
- Two other artifacts, which were not publicly identified.
The artifacts were formally handed over to Sri Lankan officials at a ceremony held at the National Museum in Colombo. Dutch ambassador Bonnie Horbach said that the return of the artifacts was a "gesture of reconciliation" and recognition of the "dark chapters" of Dutch colonial history.
In addition to the six artifacts that were returned on Tuesday, the Netherlands is also in the process of returning a number of other artifacts to Sri Lanka. These include a crown, a scepter, and a throne that were taken from the Kandyan royal family in 1815.
Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked the Netherlands for returning the artifacts, saying that they were a "symbol of our national identity and heritage." He added that the return of the artifacts would "help to heal the wounds of the past."
The artifacts will be on display at the National Museum in Colombo for a limited time. They will then be transferred to the Kandy Museum, which is located in the city where they were originally taken.
The return of the artifacts is a welcome development. It is a reminder that museums and governments have a responsibility to address the legacy of colonialism and to return looted artifacts to their rightful owners.
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