Michael Brown
There are almost 90 000 African artworks in French Museums. The swift return of African artefacts would provide an economic boost for countries on the continent and stoke a sense of national pride which would help create greater cultural productivity on the continent.
A visit to the Louvre in Paris is on any tourists “must see” list while visiting the capital of France. Some people will hope to see the Liberty Leading the People, a painting that defines the essence of the French revolution, while others will happily queue to glimpse at Leonardo Di Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Predictably, the world’s largest museum will have areas of inactivity; one of which is the section displaying African art. Yet, despite this notion, it is an area that has attracted large controversy in modern society.
Debates around this issue became prominent when in 2017 French president Emmanuel Macron announced his intentions to return all looted African artefacts in France to their countries of origin. The French president had commissioned a report and the authors of the report, the Senegalese writer Felwine Sarr and the French historian Bénédicte Savoy, recommended that French law should be adjusted to allow for the restitution of cultural works back to Africa. According to the report, almost 90% of African art is currently held in museums and private collections outside the African continent, including statues, thrones and manuscripts.
According to a report by Quartz Africa, there are almost 90 000 African artworks in French museums and most of them are housed at the ethnographic museum, Quai Branly, that also boasts a large collection of Asian art. The museum was founded by Jacques Chirac, who served as President of France from 1995 to 2007 and who was an avid collector of African and Asian art.
There have been consistent calls over the decades from African historians, leaders and artists for the repatriation of Africa’s artistic and cultural heritage and Macron’s statement was positively received in Burkina Faso when Macron clarified that these artefacts would not be loaned back but rather returned permanently.
Only in cases where there was historical proof that these objects were obtained legitimately would the artefacts remain in France. Benin, however, has already announced plans to accommodate their returning artefacts this year and was the first country to formally ask France to return their artifacts. In July French Culture Minister Franck Riester said Paris will go ahead with the restitution without waiting for a new law to enshrine it. France will return 26 works of art to Benin after 126 years when they were taken from the palace of King Behanzin in the late 1800s.
In theory, the swift return of African artefacts would be an understated economic boost for African countries. Research from the Arts Council England suggests that every £1 paid by the arts and culture sector generates an additional £2.01 in the industry mainly due to “attracting visitors” and “creating jobs”.
It is unknown what kind of income could be generated from these works in the African context, but what’s clear is that it’s not simply about economics, these artifacts should be given the opportunity to thrive in a part of Africa where the artefacts speak to each citizen’s heritage and enhance African identity through deepening the continent’s heritage.
Art is often more than a channelled piece of talent, it also has historical value. Some of the most famous artworks hold stories that have the potential to educate our society and become visual representation that embodies our history. This, in turn, would promote national pride and love for our country and continent. In Britain children will look at a Spitfire to learn about their country’s heroism during the Second World War. American children will learn of their country’s independence through the Statue of Liberty, while French children will visit the Bastille to understand their country’s fight for freedom. All of these artefacts have become symbols of their country and have added more than just historical or monetary value.
Art also has the ability to inspire a young generation to create their own work and continue this trend in human culture. Currently, reports suggest that 90% of African art resides in other areas of the world meaning that only the elite few from the continent will have the privilege of interacting with their heritage. More alarmingly, the average African on this continent will see a staggeringly low percentage of their country’s best artistic yield. Perhaps seeing these works in person would stoke a sense of national pride which would help create greater cultural productivity on the continent.
In reality, the biggest obstacle would be the safe transportation and maintenance of these historic artefacts. European art dealers have voiced their scepticism, providing a myriad of reasons for artworks to remain in their museums including conflict on the continent and corruption at government level. There have been some examples of this. In 1973, for instance, President Mobutu Seso Seko of then Zaire (now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo) pleaded for Europe to send back the artefacts of his country.
“During the colonial period we suffered … from the barbarous, systematic pillaging of all our works of art,” he told the United Nations General Assembly in October 1973. According to a report, the artefacts were returned, as many as 144 of them, but they soon found their way back to the European markets again. Unquestionably there are challenges to returning these artefacts, but African governments must make it a priority to find solutions.
Many of these artefacts which sometimes are not even displayed in European museums, collect dust and they could instead be used to inspire the African continent. In an age when we are all working to make Africa work, giving the youth inspiration to stake their claim in African history would do no harm.
I¦ve recently started a site, the information you provide on this site has helped me tremendously. Thanks for all of your time & work.
Valuable info. Lucky me I found your website by accident, and I’m shocked why this accident did not happened earlier! I bookmarked it.
Hello there, You’ve performed an excellent job. I’ll certainly digg it and individually recommend to my friends. I am sure they will be benefited from this web site.
Very well written article. It will be useful to everyone who usess it, including yours truly :). Keep doing what you are doing – i will definitely read more posts.
Hey! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any trouble with hackers? My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up losing several weeks of hard work due to no data backup. Do you have any solutions to prevent hackers?
Great line up. We will be linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the good writing.
Heya just wanted to give you a brief heads up and let you know a few of the images aren’t loading correctly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue. I’ve tried it in two different browsers and both show the same results.
Hi! I know this is kinda off topic however , I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in exchanging links or maybe guest authoring a blog article or vice-versa? My website covers a lot of the same topics as yours and I feel we could greatly benefit from each other. If you are interested feel free to shoot me an e-mail. I look forward to hearing from you! Fantastic blog by the way!
Well I really liked reading it. This post procured by you is very effective for good planning.
Thanks for another informative blog. Where else could I get that type of information written in such an ideal way? I’ve a project that I’m just now working on, and I have been on the look out for such information.
I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post…
You made some decent points there. I looked on the internet for the subject matter and found most people will agree with your site.
It¦s really a cool and helpful piece of information. I am satisfied that you just shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.
I was suggested this blog by my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my trouble. You are incredible! Thanks!
Your place is valueble for me. Thanks!…
Thanks for the sensible critique. Me & my neighbor were just preparing to do some research about this. We got a grab a book from our local library but I think I learned more clear from this post. I’m very glad to see such magnificent information being shared freely out there.
Good day! I know this is somewhat off topic but I was wondering if you knew where I could locate a captcha plugin for my comment form? I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having problems finding one? Thanks a lot!
I went over this web site and I think you have a lot of good info , saved to my bookmarks (:.
Hello there, I found your site by way of Google while searching for a similar subject, your web site came up, it appears great. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
I’ve been surfing online more than 3 hours today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me. In my view, if all website owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the net will be much more useful than ever before.
I conceive this internet site has some real superb info for everyone : D.
Pretty! This was a really wonderful post. Thank you for your provided information.
you could have an excellent weblog here! would you prefer to make some invite posts on my weblog?
The next time I learn a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as a lot as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to learn, however I actually thought youd have something fascinating to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you can repair when you werent too busy on the lookout for attention.
I think this is among the most significant information for me. And i am glad reading your article. But should remark on few general things, The site style is perfect, the articles is really great : D. Good job, cheers
I have not checked in here for a while since I thought it was getting boring, but the last several posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
I’ve been browsing on-line more than three hours nowadays, but I never found any fascinating article like yours. It is lovely price enough for me. Personally, if all webmasters and bloggers made good content as you did, the internet might be a lot more useful than ever before.
I’m impressed, I have to say. Really not often do I encounter a weblog that’s each educative and entertaining, and let me let you know, you could have hit the nail on the head. Your thought is excellent; the issue is something that not sufficient people are talking intelligently about. I am very joyful that I stumbled across this in my seek for one thing relating to this.
This design is wicked! You most certainly know how to keep a reader entertained. Between your wit and your videos, I was almost moved to start my own blog (well, almost…HaHa!) Excellent job. I really enjoyed what you had to say, and more than that, how you presented it. Too cool!
I liked up to you’ll obtain performed right here. The comic strip is tasteful, your authored material stylish. nonetheless, you command get got an impatience over that you want be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come further formerly once more as precisely the same just about very steadily within case you defend this hike.
I went over this internet site and I think you have a lot of great information, bookmarked (:.
I¦ve read a few just right stuff here. Certainly value bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how so much attempt you set to create any such excellent informative site.
It’s the best time to make some plans for the future and it’s time to be happy. I have read this post and if I could I desire to suggest you few interesting things or tips. Perhaps you can write next articles referring to this article. I want to read even more things about it!
I was looking at some of your posts on this site and I conceive this website is really instructive! Continue posting.
I like this web blog so much, saved to my bookmarks.
I’d constantly want to be update on new blog posts on this site, saved to fav! .
Howdy just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The words in your content seem to be running off the screen in Ie. I’m not sure if this is a format issue or something to do with web browser compatibility but I thought I’d post to let you know. The layout look great though! Hope you get the issue solved soon. Cheers
Regards for this post, I am a big fan of this site would like to keep updated.
I respect your work, thanks for all the useful posts.
I love the efforts you have put in this, thank you for all the great posts.
Hello, Neat post. There is an issue along with your web site in web explorer, would test this… IE nonetheless is the market chief and a good component to people will leave out your magnificent writing because of this problem.
You made some clear points there. I did a search on the topic and found most individuals will agree with your site.
Heya i’m for the first time here. I found this board and I find It really useful & it helped me out much. I’m hoping to present something back and help others like you aided me.
I have learn some just right stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how so much attempt you set to create the sort of fantastic informative website.
I savour, result in I discovered just what I was looking for. You’ve ended my four day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye
Very interesting topic, regards for putting up.
Hi, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your website in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, fantastic blog!
Howdy would you mind letting me know which webhost you’re using? I’ve loaded your blog in 3 completely different web browsers and I must say this blog loads a lot faster then most. Can you recommend a good web hosting provider at a reasonable price? Many thanks, I appreciate it!
Utterly indited articles, Really enjoyed looking through.
Great line up. We will be linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the good writing.
When I originally commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment is added I get several e-mails with the same comment. Is there any way you can remove me from that service? Bless you!
I really appreciate this post. I¦ve been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thanks again
I think this internet site has got very fantastic indited subject material posts.
Hi, Neat post. There is an issue together with your web site in web explorer, would check this?K IE nonetheless is the marketplace chief and a huge element of folks will leave out your fantastic writing due to this problem.
Wonderful beat ! I would like to apprentice whilst you amend your site, how can i subscribe for a blog web site? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I have been tiny bit familiar of this your broadcast offered vibrant transparent concept
Hey there I am so grateful I found your blog, I really found you by accident, while I was researching on Yahoo for something else, Nonetheless I am here now and would just like to say thanks for a marvelous post and a all round entertaining blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read it all at the minute but I have saved it and also added your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read more, Please do keep up the superb job.
I would like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in writing this blog. I am hoping the same high-grade website post from you in the upcoming as well. Actually your creative writing skills has inspired me to get my own website now. Actually the blogging is spreading its wings quickly. Your write up is a good example of it.
Great blog! I am loving it!! Will be back later to read some more. I am taking your feeds also
WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..extra wait .. …
This really answered my downside, thanks!
I always was concerned in this topic and still am, thanks for posting.
Hi , I do believe this is an excellent blog. I stumbled upon it on Yahoo , i will come back once again. Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and help other people.
I’m not sure where you’re getting your info, but great topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for great information I was looking for this info for my mission.
I really appreciate this post. I have been looking everywhere for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You have made my day! Thx again
I besides think thus, perfectly written post! .
Howdy! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely glad I found it and I’ll be bookmarking and checking back often!
We absolutely love your blog and find the majority of your post’s to be precisely what I’m looking for. Does one offer guest writers to write content for you? I wouldn’t mind producing a post or elaborating on most of the subjects you write concerning here. Again, awesome web log!
Wohh precisely what I was looking for, thankyou for posting.
I keep listening to the news broadcast speak about getting boundless online grant applications so I have been looking around for the top site to get one. Could you tell me please, where could i get some?
Its like you read my mind! You seem to know so much about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with some pics to drive the message home a bit, but other than that, this is fantastic blog. A fantastic read. I will certainly be back.
Hmm it looks like your blog ate my first comment (it was super long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog. I too am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to the whole thing. Do you have any points for first-time blog writers? I’d really appreciate it.
I must show my affection for your kind-heartedness giving support to men who must have guidance on this one study. Your very own commitment to getting the message across became extremely invaluable and have usually encouraged somebody much like me to arrive at their desired goals. This valuable help denotes so much a person like me and a whole lot more to my colleagues. Regards; from all of us.
Regards for helping out, great information. “The laws of probability, so true in general, so fallacious in particular.” by Edward Gibbon.
I found your blog website on google and examine a number of of your early posts. Continue to maintain up the excellent operate. I just additional up your RSS feed to my MSN Information Reader. Looking for ahead to reading extra from you in a while!…
Please let me know if you’re looking for a author for your weblog. You have some really great posts and I believe I would be a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d love to write some articles for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine. Please shoot me an email if interested. Many thanks!
Have you ever considered about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is important and everything. However imagine if you added some great images or video clips to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and videos, this website could undeniably be one of the most beneficial in its field. Amazing blog!
I needed to write you this very small remark to be able to say thank you again for these breathtaking information you’ve discussed in this case. It’s pretty open-handed with you to deliver publicly exactly what a number of us would’ve made available for an e-book in order to make some cash on their own, especially considering that you might well have done it in the event you wanted. Those secrets likewise served to become easy way to be aware that many people have similar keenness really like my very own to understand many more on the topic of this issue. I am certain there are lots of more fun opportunities ahead for individuals that look into your website.
When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now each time a remark is added I get 4 emails with the identical comment. Is there any means you possibly can take away me from that service? Thanks!
Someone essentially help to make seriously articles I would state. This is the first time I frequented your website page and thus far? I amazed with the research you made to create this particular publish incredible. Wonderful job!
Hey! This post couldn’t be written any better! Reading this post reminds me of my old room mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this write-up to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Thank you for sharing!
Great blog here! Also your web site loads up fast! What web host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my website loaded up as fast as yours lol
Hello, Neat post. There is a problem together with your website in internet explorer, could check this… IE nonetheless is the market chief and a huge element of folks will leave out your great writing due to this problem.
What’s Happening i’m new to this, I stumbled upon this I have found It positively useful and it has helped me out loads. I hope to contribute & help other users like its helped me. Good job.
I precisely needed to appreciate you again. I am not sure the things that I could possibly have undertaken in the absence of these creative ideas shared by you regarding such subject matter. This was a real traumatic circumstance in my circumstances, however , considering the very professional fashion you managed that took me to leap with contentment. I will be grateful for this assistance as well as sincerely hope you recognize what an amazing job you’re undertaking teaching men and women using your blog. I know that you have never got to know any of us.
Thank you, I have recently been searching for info about this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I have found out so far. However, what concerning the conclusion? Are you sure about the supply?
Some genuinely fantastic information, Sword lily I detected this. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly what is essential is invisible to the eye.” by Antoine De Saint-Exupery.
I’m still learning from you, but I’m making my way to the top as well. I certainly enjoy reading all that is written on your site.Keep the tips coming. I liked it!
A lot of thanks for all of your hard work on this website. My niece really likes setting aside time for research and it’s really obvious why. My spouse and i know all relating to the dynamic way you offer worthwhile thoughts by means of your blog and as well increase response from other people on this matter then our own girl is really being taught a lot of things. Enjoy the rest of the year. You are performing a fantastic job.
Wow! This could be one particular of the most beneficial blogs We’ve ever arrive across on this subject. Actually Fantastic. I’m also an expert in this topic therefore I can understand your hard work.
I have not checked in here for some time as I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I¦ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
Simply desire to say your article is as astounding. The clarity in your put up is simply cool and i can assume you’re an expert in this subject. Well together with your permission allow me to snatch your RSS feed to keep updated with forthcoming post. Thanks 1,000,000 and please carry on the enjoyable work.
Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Very useful info specially the last part 🙂 I care for such info a lot. I was looking for this certain information for a long time. Thank you and best of luck.
Excellent web site. Lots of helpful information here. I’m sending it to some pals ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks to your sweat!
There is noticeably a bundle to know about this. I assume you made certain nice points in features also.
I was recommended this blog by my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my trouble. You’re incredible! Thanks!
This web page is mostly a stroll-through for all the information you wanted about this and didn’t know who to ask. Glimpse here, and also you’ll positively discover it.
Wow! This can be one particular of the most useful blogs We’ve ever arrive across on this subject. Basically Excellent. I’m also an expert in this topic therefore I can understand your hard work.
Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with some pics to drive the message home a little bit, but instead of that, this is magnificent blog. An excellent read. I will certainly be back.
As I website possessor I believe the articles here is really great, appreciate it for your efforts.
Exactly what I was looking for, appreciate it for putting up.
There are certainly lots of details like that to take into consideration. That may be a nice point to bring up. I provide the thoughts above as normal inspiration however clearly there are questions just like the one you carry up where an important thing might be working in sincere good faith. I don?t know if greatest practices have emerged round things like that, but I am certain that your job is clearly identified as a good game. Each boys and girls really feel the affect of just a second’s pleasure, for the remainder of their lives.