Benin Bonzes Presentation

What are they? Where are they situated?

The Benin Bronzes are a remarkable collection of plaques and sculptures that once adorned the Royal Palace of Benin (Present day, Nigeria). These intricate works of art, primarily made of brass and ivory, showcase the artistry and cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom, which flourished from 13th century onwards.

In 1897, British forces launched a punitive expedition on Benin city. The palace was looted, removing thousands of these valuable artifacts. Many of the Benin Bronzes ended up in the British museum, where they are currently housed, sparking ongoing debates about cultural heritage and repatriation. This collection serves not only as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Benin people, but also as a focal point for discussions about colonialism and the ethics of museum collections.

Ethics, Social, Legal Context?

A British military force of 1200 men invaded Benin city, the heart of the Edo Kingdom. The invasion was partly a response to British colonial ambitions, and a recent conflict in which British officials were killed while trying to enter Benin, Despite being warned not to. The British use this as a justification to conquer the kingdom.

Upon their arrival, the British force is looted Benin, Burning buildings and capturing inhabitants. They particularly targeted the Royal Palace, seizing artworks that had been collected over centuries. The Benin Bronzes (A collection of sculptures, heads, and plaques) Were sold off to private collectors and museums worldwide. The legal justification at the time came from colonial powers claiming authority over territories they conquered which allowed them to plunder and sell these artifacts.

Repatriation?

Nigeria has formally requested the return of these artifacts, including through its national commission from museums and monuments (NCMM).

These calls reflect a larger issue across Africa aware around 90% of the continent cultural heritage is held abroad, often stolen or obtained under questionable legal circumstances.

Nigeria’s key argument is that many of these artifacts remain hidden in museum archives.

Institutions like the university of Cambridge have identified and supported the return of numerous objects taken during the 1897 Benin Expedition. In 2022, Cambridge agreed to transfer legal ownership of these items to Nigeria, a decision leader backed by the UK’s Charity commission.

Nigeria is preparing to receive these artifacts by building the Edo museum of West African arts and related facilities to properly house and study the returned artifacts.

Personal Thoughts

Speak from the heart and head; this where most of the time will soak up.