Bordeaux refuses the donation of artworks from seven African countries

Bordeaux – 01.06.2026: The city of Bordeaux officially rejected on June 1, 2026, a private donation of 53 art objects from seven African countries. This decision enables the direct repatriation of these works to their countries of origin, particularly Gabon, which will receive 33 pieces from the collection.

The collection was gathered by Marie-Thérèse Petit, a former midwife from Bordeaux who worked in several African countries between 1947 and 1982. She passed away in 2022 and left the collection to the city. The objects, including artworks and jewelry, have been preserved so far at the Musée d’Aquitaine and come from Gabon, Nigeria, Niger, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, and Togo.

The decision by the city of Bordeaux represents a significant step in the current debate on the repatriation of African cultural goods brought to Europe during the colonial era. It aligns with French legislation adopted in May 2026 for the repatriation of illegally acquired cultural property.

The return of the 33 objects from Gabon, attributed to the Tsogo people, is considered a historic moment for the country. These works, of great cultural value, will be exhibited at the Musée national des Arts, Rites et Traditions in Libreville.

Bordeaux’s decision to reject the donation allows the countries concerned to collaborate directly with French authorities to coordinate the repatriation of their cultural goods. This fosters international cooperation and dialogue regarding the restitution of cultural goods taken during the colonial period.

This development is part of a broader process in which numerous African countries request the return of cultural goods from European museums. In recent years, France has made various restitutions, including the return of 90 objects to Gabon in January 2024.

Bordeaux’s decision to refuse the donation is seen as a positive example of cultural property restitution and could become a model for other European cities facing similar discussions. It highlights the importance of cooperation between the countries concerned and the French authorities to facilitate the repatriation of cultural goods.

The return of these objects is regarded not only as a cultural gain for Gabon but also as a step towards healing historical wounds and promoting cultural exchange between Europe and Africa. It symbolizes the recognition of the importance of the cultural heritage of the countries concerned and the responsibility of former colonial countries to respect and return that heritage.