Posted
Update
France is preparing to return to Benin 26 works of art looted during the colonial era. This is the first time that a set of pieces has left a French museum for Africa. Tens of thousands of other works could subsequently be examined.
Treasures from Benin, displayed at the Quai Branly museum in Paris, have survived the throes of history. Looted by France in colonial times, carved wooden doors, royal thrones and statues once adorned a rich palace. Jealously preserved by France for more than 130 years, these works exhibited in Paris are preparing to return to their country of origin. This is a historic first.
Returning to Africa the heritage that belongs to it, Emmanuel Macron made a commitment four years ago during a trip to Burkina Faso. In total, 26 works from this royal treasure will therefore leave Paris for Benin. It is a symbol for those who have been demanding this restitution for years. “It is a feeling of pride to be Beninese, and to have opened the process of restitution“breathes Calixte Biah, curator of Benin. For three years, the Quai Branly museum has been investigating to determine the number of stolen works.