By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@ReutersPhoto.
The planned auction of dozens of artifacts belonging to former late statesman Nelson Mandela has been suspended pending a court application.
The online auction had been scheduled by New York-based Guernsey’s auction house for 24 February, in conjunction with Makaziwe Mandela, the eldest daughter of Mandela.
It had received widespread criticism, with the government supporting a court application by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) to appeal an earlier court judgment that gave the auction the go-ahead.
Sahra argues that the items to be auctioned are the country’s cultural heritage artifacts and should be preserved for future generations instead of being sold to the highest bidder.
Items listed in the auction included Mandela’s “book” – his identification document following his 1993 release from prison.
Also among the items is Mandela’s iconic Ray-Ban sunglasses and “Madiba” shirts, personal letters he wrote from prison, as well as a blanket given to him by former US president Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.
A champagne cooler that was a present from former US president Bill Clinton was also on the list, with bidding for it starting at $24,000.
Sahra welcomes the decision by Guernsey’s Auction House to suspend the auction,” the agency said.
“This decision aligns with our commitment to the conservation of South Africa’s cultural heritage, and we appreciate the recognition of the sensitivity surrounding these significant artefacts.
“As Sahra pursues the application for leave to appeal the recent High Court judgment related to the export of heritage objects, the suspension of the auction is a responsible and considerate approach.
“It allows the ongoing legal proceedings to be concluded and affords SAHRA the opportunity to pursue its objective of preserving the cultural heritage of our nation.
“We value the cooperation of Guernsey’s Auction House in this matter.”
Guernsey’s described the planned auction as “nothing short of remarkable,” and said that proceeds would be used for the building of the Mandela memorial garden in Qunu, the village where he is buried.