The Brutish Museums by Dan Hicks delves into the complex and contentious issue of cultural restitution, focusing on the Benin Bronzes—a collection of iconic sculptures looted from the Kingdom of Benin during the British colonial conquest in 1897. Hicks argues compellingly for the urgent return of these priceless artifacts, highlighting the broader context of colonial violence and exploitation.
At the heart of this book is a discussion on the ethics of museums that house stolen cultural heritage, and the ongoing debate surrounding repatriation. With the Benin Bronzes as a focal point, Hicks makes a powerful case for reparations, calling attention to the enduring consequences of colonialism and the responsibility of institutions to decolonize and return stolen artifacts to their rightful owners.
This thought-provoking book engages with the global conversation on cultural restitution, and challenges the way museums, collections, and cultural institutions participate in perpetuating historical injustices.
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