The Dutch government has announced plans to return a significant number of looted artifacts, totaling 478 objects, to Indonesia and Sri Lanka. The decision marks a significant moment for the Rijksmuseum, as it will be the institution’s first repatriation of colonial artifacts, including six items from its collection.
Gunay Uslu, the Dutch Secretary of State for Culture and Media, made the decision to repatriate the objects in response to repeated requests from Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria. Among the items to be returned are 335 artifacts known as the “Lombok treasure,” a collection of modern art from Bali, the Pita Maha collection, and the 18th-century Cannon of Kandy, which may have been used in ceremonies to welcome royal visitors. While the majority of the artifacts are held by the National Museum of World Cultures, the Rijksmuseum currently houses six Sri Lankan objects. This repatriation marks the first instance of the Rijksmuseum returning colonial artifacts since conducting provenance research in 2017.
Taco Dibbits, the General Director of the Rijksmuseum, expressed appreciation for the Secretary of State’s decision and emphasized the positive step taken in cooperation with Sri Lanka. Dibbits stated, “The relationship and exchanges of knowledge built up between the two nations in the fields of research and common history constitute a strong foundation for the future.”
The move to return these looted objects follows a 2020 report from the Dutch Council for Culture, which recommended the return of artifacts acquired under the country’s colonial authority or the provision of financial compensation.
A ceremonial handover of the repatriated artifacts will take place on July 10 at the Museum Volkenkunde Leiden, where the items will be transferred to the National Museum of Indonesia in Jakarta.
This repatriation effort is part of a broader global movement seeking to return cultural objects taken during periods of colonial rule. The return of artifacts, such as the Benin Bronzes, has gained increased attention and momentum in recent years as countries grapple with the legacies of their colonial pasts. The Dutch government’s decision to return these looted objects demonstrates a commitment to addressing historical injustices and fostering cultural cooperation with the countries of origin.