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Benin Bronzes Are An Example Of Culture Essay

Benin Bronzes are an example of culture and representation encapsulated in art work. Although these artifacts in themselves contain so much controversy because of the way that they were originally attained, it brings cultural, racial, and aesthetic representation to a society that sometimes seems to forget that there were once societies vastly different from one's own. These Benin Bronzes in themselves contain historical representation from a time now forgotten and very little appreciated (Gore 2008). These are examples of artifacts that need to be properly situated in locations that will bring vast amount of interest and understanding of their value. The most appropriate location to display the Benin Bronzes would be in a place that would be accessible by all those who wish to appreciate the cultural and aesthetic importance of these artifacts. Museums would be a great choice, but only those that are completely dedicated to the preservation of old values and the original culture of the Benin Bronzes. The Musee du quai Branly would be an example of an institution concentrated on presenting the ideals of art in a non-Western perspective, as a result protecting the purity of these pieces of art. It is of high value to know that the physical and aesthetically appealing features of these artifacts should be presented in a classy way to give credit to the beauty of what they actually represent (Fur 2009).

Representation of culture in art is absolutely everything. One cannot appreciate the essence of the artist architecture without...

This is why such objects as the Benin Bronzes are to be displayed in a location that accentuates its important qualities. These are pieces of art that represent a time in African history that has been forgotten and has become more of a story of folklore than what it actually was at one point in time. It tells the story of creation in these cultures, creation that still exists in some parts of Africa, and for those that no longer possess it, it is part of their ancestory (Gore 2008). Depicting a time of peace and cohesiveness during an era that no longer seems to have that in mind deserves to be displayed in a location where people not only go to visually observe it, but also to appreciate its value beyond that of monetary purpose. The Musee du quai Branly specializes in the appreciation of art so that the masses understand its significance and showcasing these arts in such a location would be appropriate if allowed to be seen by all those who truly understand its significance.
The Benin Empire's history is depicted throughout this art. In order for that to be appreciated, the location in which it is to be displayed needs to be in one that makes the history its biggest priority. Knowing that the Benin empire went through so much warfare and conflict in order to preserve what it was as a whole, makes the location of these artifacts that much more pertinent to those interested in preserving what is rightfully theirs. In order for these bronzes to be in a correct location,…

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References:

Gore, C. (2008). Art, Performance, and Ritual in Benin City. Edinburgh University Press: Great Britain. Print.

Fur, Y.L. (2009). Musee du quai Branly: The collection: Art from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Flammarion Publishing Group: Paris, France. Print.
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