Mobilising

This multilingual, English-language anthology addresses the cultural heritage of the pre-colonial Kingdom of Benin in present-day Nigeria. Objects from Benin can also be found in Swiss museums. In addition to new insights into the historical and current significance of the artifacts, the richly illustrated book highlights the ongoing dialogue with partners from Nigeria and the diaspora. It reflects on both the methods of cooperative research and the future of the items housed here. Object biographies and examples from educational and exhibition practices provide insight into the intertwined histories, the international art trade, and post-colonial memory work between Africa and Europe. The book is published as part of the Benin Initiative Switzerland (2021-2024), a project involving eight Swiss museums that focuses on researching the provenance of objects from colonial contexts. Texts and images offer an opportunity to reflect on works and values, relationships, and historical narratives. Collaboration with representatives from Nigeria and the diaspora enables new forms of knowledge production. In this process, not only is the cultural heritage set in motion, but also the museum itself.