Discover the Rich Cultural Heritage of Benin at the Royal Museum

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Welcome to the Benin Museum, where you can explore the rich history and heritage of the Kingdom of Benin. Benin art and artifacts are known for their exceptional beauty and craftsmanship, as well as their historical significance.

History

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The Benin Bronzes are a group of several thousand metal plaques and sculptures that decorated the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now Edo State, Nigeria. Collectively, the objects form the best examples of Benin art and were created in the thirteenth century by artists of the Edo people. Apart from the plaques, other sculptures in brass or bronze include portrait heads, jewelry, and smaller pieces.
A 16th-century Benin Bronze depicting a Portuguese soldier, with manillas in the background. Many of the dramatic sculptures date to the thirteenth century, and a large part of the collection dates to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. It is believed that two "golden ages" in Benin's metal workmanship occurred during the reigns of Esigie (fl. 1550) and of Eresoyen (1735–1750) when their workmanship achieved its highest quality.

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The Crime of Disinheritance

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The Benin bronzes, considered as one of Africa's most valuable treasures, were forcefully taken from us. They have greatly influenced European and Western art. Unfortunately, as Nigerians, we have limited access to them. The artifacts are often displayed in glass cases located thousands of miles away from us. This creates a sense of disconnection and deprives us of the chance to learn and reflect on our own history.

The Past and the Future 

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While the theft of the Benin artefacts has caused us immeasurable loss for generations, it is important to note that our past does not define us. Our future looks brighter as we strive towards reclaiming what was unjustly taken from us. It is crucial that the world understands the significance of these artefacts and the impact their theft has had on our culture and heritage.
Although the past cannot be changed, we can take steps to ensure that it is not forgotten. The return of these artefacts will allow us to re-engage with our history and culture on our own soil, which is an essential part of preserving our identity and passing it down to future generations.
It's not about dwelling on the wrongs of the past, but rather, taking action to right the future. By recovering what was stolen from us, we can move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage. The return of these artefacts will not only restore what was taken from us, but it will also signify a turning point in the fight against cultural exploitation and injustice.

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