- The Benin Bronzes were looted from Nigeria in the late 19th century
The Netherlands has disclosed that it is returning over 100 “Benin Bronzes” British troops looted from Nigeria in the late 19th century.
The ancient sculptures, which ended up in a Dutch museum, were taken by the British in 1897 from the Kingdom of Benin. They include depictions of royal figures and animals.
The looted treasures were displayed at the Wereldmuseum (World Museum) in Leiden after they were sold.
Speaking on the return, Dutch Culture, Education, and Science Minister Eppo Bruins said: “With this return, we are contributing to the redress of a historical injustice that is still felt today.”
Olugbile Holloway, Director General of the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments revealed that the 113 pieces are the biggest haul returned to Nigeria from the 1897 raid.
“We hope that this will be a good example… for other countries worldwide,” Holloway stated.
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