In this episode of Freakonomics, host Stephen Dubner explores the topic of repatriating stolen art, focusing on the case of the Benin bronzes looted by Britain from the historic Kingdom of Benin in what is now Nigeria. Dubner interviews Patricia Allen, the curator of world cultures at Glasgow Museums, who has been actively working on repatriation and restitution during the lockdown period. Together, they discuss the ethical considerations, challenges, and potential solutions surrounding the return of stolen cultural artifacts.
Patricia Allen, curator of world cultures at Glasgow Museums, discusses the ongoing repatriation efforts surrounding the Benin bronzes, artworks and artifacts looted by Britain from the historic Kingdom of Benin. Despite the British Museum’s refusal to return stolen acts from Benin, many institutions, including Glasgow Museums, have started repatriating their Benin pieces. The ethical considerations surrounding the hoarding of non-British cultural heritage by British museums are questioned, highlighting the disparities in the treatment of non-European artifacts. The challenges of repatriation, including potential claimants and the fate of the returned objects, are explored, along with the potential solutions of lease agreements and market design strategies. The Black Lives Matter movement has further ignited interest in cultural repatriation, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for fairness and justice.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture has implemented a new collections policy prioritizing ethical considerations in acquiring and maintaining collections. Through negotiations with the Nigerian government, the Smithsonian repatriated 20 Benin objects to Nigeria and will keep nine on long-term loan. The museum aims to share authority and be shaped by the community, collecting people’s stories along with material artifacts. Additionally, the museum explores the complicated legacy of Thomas Jefferson, highlighting the contradictions in his life and legacy, including his ownership of slaves. The Smithsonian’s commitment to tackling hard questions and engaging with contemporary issues reflects the evolving role of museums in society.
The repatriation of stolen art, such as the Benin bronzes, raises important ethical considerations and challenges for museums worldwide. As cultural heritage becomes a focal point of discussions surrounding justice and fairness, institutions like Glasgow Museums and the Smithsonian are actively engaging in repatriation efforts and implementing ethical collections policies. The ongoing struggle for fairness and the need for museums to have a contemporary resonance underscore the importance of addressing the complexities surrounding cultural repatriation. By actively seeking solutions and engaging with communities, museums can play a vital role in restoring cultural heritage and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future.