Bordeaux refuses a donation of artworks from seven African countries

Bordeaux – 06/01/2026: The city of Bordeaux officially refused on June 1, 2026, a private donation of 53 art objects from seven African countries. This decision allows the direct repatriation of these works to their countries of origin, particularly Gabon, which will recover 33 pieces from the collection.

The collection was assembled 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 bequeathed the collection to the city. The objects, including artworks and jewelry, have since been kept at the Musée d’Aquitaine and come from Gabon, Nigeria, Niger, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burkina Faso, and Togo.

The decision by the city of Bordeaux represents an important step in the context of current debates on the restitution of African cultural property transferred to Europe during the colonial period. It is in accordance with French legislation adopted in May 2026 on the restitution of cultural goods acquired illegally.

The restitution of the 33 objects from Gabon, attributed to the Tsogo people, is considered a historic moment for this country. These works, of great cultural importance, will be exhibited at the National Museum of Arts, Rites, and Traditions in Libreville.

Bordeaux’s choice to refuse the donation allows the states concerned to collaborate directly with French authorities to coordinate the restitution of their cultural property. This fosters international cooperation and dialogue on the restitution of cultural assets brought to Europe during the colonial period.

This development is part of a broader process in which several African countries are demanding the restitution of cultural goods held in European museums. France has made several restitutions in recent years, notably the return of 90 objects to Gabon in January 2024.

Bordeaux’s decision to refuse this donation is seen as a positive example in the field of cultural property restitution and could serve as a model for other European cities engaged in similar discussions. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation between the countries concerned and French authorities to facilitate restitutions.

The restitution of these objects is viewed not only as a cultural gain for Gabon but also as a step toward healing historical wounds and promoting cultural exchanges between Europe and Africa. It symbolizes the recognition of the importance of the cultural heritage of the countries concerned as well as the responsibility of former colonial powers to respect and return this heritage.