Bordeaux refuses donation of artworks from seven African countries

Bordeaux – June 1, 2026: The city of Bordeaux officially refused a private donation of 53 artworks from seven African countries on June 1, 2026. This decision paves the way for the direct return of the works to their countries of origin, especially to Gabon, where 33 items from the collection will be returned.

This collection was gathered by former midwife Marie-Thérèse Petit, who worked in several African countries from 1947 to 1982. She passed away in 2022, leaving the collection to the city of Bordeaux. The items, which include artworks and jewelry, have since been kept at the Musée d’Aquitaine and originate from Gabon, Nigeria, Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and Togo.

The decision by the city of Bordeaux is an important step in the current discourse on the restitution of African cultural heritage exported to Europe during the colonial period. It aligns with the French law on the return of unjustly acquired cultural property enacted in May 2026.

The return of 33 items related to the Tsogo ethnic group from Gabon is regarded as a historic moment for that country. These works, of great cultural significance, are to be exhibited at the Musée national des Arts, Rites et Traditions in Libreville.

The city of Bordeaux’s refusal of the donation facilitates direct cooperation between the relevant countries and French authorities to coordinate the return of their cultural heritage, thus promoting international collaboration and dialogue on the restitution of cultural property taken to Europe during the colonial era.

These developments are part of a broad process in which several African countries are demanding the return of cultural heritage held in European museums. France has carried out several restitutions in recent years, including the return of 90 items to Gabon in January 2024.

The refusal of the donation by the city of Bordeaux is considered a positive example in the restitution of cultural property and could serve as a model for other European cities engaged in similar discussions. It underscores the importance of cooperation between the concerned countries and French authorities, increasing the likelihood of cultural heritage restitutions.

The return of these works not only provides cultural benefits to Gabon but is also seen as a step toward healing historical wounds and promoting cultural exchange between Europe and Africa. It symbolizes recognition of the importance of the cultural heritage of these countries and the responsibility of former colonial powers to respect and return that heritage.