It only took about 130 years, but the University of Cambridge has finally noticed that the massive collection of stolen Nigerian art in its cupboard belongs to someone else. In a shocking twist for fans of keeping things that do not belong to you, the university is handing back 116 artefacts known as the Benin Bronzes. These stunning metal sculptures and carvings were “borrowed” by British troops in 1897 during a particularly violent trip to Benin City. By borrowed, I mean they broke in and took everything that was not nailed down.
Now, the university and Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments have decided it is time for a bit of a home moving service. The plan is to get these pieces back to Nigeria before the year ends. It is essentially the world’s longest library book return, except the fine for being late involves a century of diplomatic awkwardness and several sternly worded letters.
The “Finders Keepers” Era is Over
The Benin Bronzes are not just pretty decorations for a dusty museum shelf in England. They hold deep spiritual and historical meaning for the people in Nigeria’s Edo State. For decades, the standard British response to requests for their return was basically a polite shrug. However, times change, and even the most traditional institutions are realising that “we found it on the floor after we kicked the door in” is no longer a valid legal defense.
Nigeria officially asked for the stuff back in early 2022. The UK Charity Commission gave the thumbs up, and now the crates are being packed. Most of the items will head to museums in Lagos and Benin City. Interestingly, 17 of the pieces are staying in Cambridge on a three year loan. It is a bit like returning a stolen car but asking if you can keep the radio for a few more weekend trips.
Restoring More Than Just Bronze
Nicholas Thomas, the director of the museum in Cambridge, says the process has been “immensely rewarding.” One can imagine it is quite a relief to finally clear out the “Colonial Violence” section of the warehouse. Olugbile Holloway from the Nigerian commission pointed out that this is about more than just metal and wood. It is about restoring pride and dignity.
It turns out that when you stop holding onto other people’s history, everyone feels a bit better. This move puts a fair bit of pressure on other British institutions that are still hugging their looted treasures tight. We are looking at you, British Museum. The Great Court might start looking a bit empty if this trend of “actually being fair” really takes off.
At this rate, by the year 2150, we might even see the Parthenon Marbles heading back to Greece. We shouldn’t hold our breath, though. Change is good, but let’s not get carried away and return everything at once. That would be far too efficient for a British institution.
