Restitution row: how Nigeria’s new home for the Benin bronzes ended up with clay replicas

The GuardianSunday, October 12, 2025 at 5:00:44 AM
Restitution row: how Nigeria’s new home for the Benin bronzes ended up with clay replicas
The recent opening of the Museum of West African Art in Nigeria was meant to celebrate the return of the Benin bronzes, but instead, visitors are greeted with clay replicas instead of the original artefacts. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in the restitution of cultural heritage, as the absence of the actual bronzes raises questions about the effectiveness of efforts to reclaim looted treasures. It matters because it reflects the broader struggle for cultural identity and justice in post-colonial societies.
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