University Of Cambridge To Return Collection Of 116 Looted Benin Bronzes

University Of Cambridge To Return Collection Of 116 Looted Benin Bronzes

During the sacking of Benin City in 1897, British armed forces stole the artifacts, which were mostly made of brass but also included some ivory and wooden objects.

During the attack, the British burned the city’s palace and exiled Benin’s Oba, or king, stealing thousands of brasses and other works known as the Benin bronzes, which were later sold in London to recoup the costs of the military mission.A university spokeswoman said on Wednesday,

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“The Charity Commission has considered and approved the return of 116 historical objects, often referred to as the Benin bronzes, from the University of Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology to the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM) of Nigeria.

“The University is now working with the Commission to finalise next steps regarding these Benin bronzes, and we will communicate these in due course. “Some artefacts will remain in Cambridge on extended loan, ensuring that this West African civilisation continues to be represented in the museum’s displays, and in teaching for school groups.

“Those that return physically will be transferred to the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, as is required legally by the Republic of Nigeria, and an approach formally supported by the Oba of Benin.”

The majority of museums in England and Wales operate as charities and so must seek approval from the Charities Commission to dispose of items in their collections.