Netherlands Returns 113 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria
The Netherlands is repatriating 113 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, marking the largest single return of artifacts looted during the 1897 British punitive expedition. The objects—including plaques, personal ornaments, and figures—are currently held by the Wereldmuseum Leiden and the municipality of Rotterdam. They were identified through a restitution report, after which the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments filed for their return. The bronzes originally decorated the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin in present-day Edo State. Dutch Minister Eppo Bruins stated the restitution addresses a historical injustice, while Olugible Holloway of the Nigerian commission thanked the Netherlands and hopes other nations follow suit. Over 900 Benin Bronzes remain at the British Museum. The Netherlands is also in talks with Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia about other contested objects.
Key facts
- 113 Benin Bronzes to be returned to Nigeria from the Netherlands
- Objects include plaques, personal ornaments, figures, a bell, three relief plaques, a coconut casing, and a staff
- Currently housed in Wereldmuseum Leiden and Rotterdam municipality collections
- Looted during 1897 British expedition that overthrew Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi
- Originally from the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin in Edo State, Nigeria
- Return follows a restitution report and request by Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments
- Dutch Minister Eppo Bruins and NCMM director-general Olugible Holloway commented
- Over 900 Benin Bronzes remain at the British Museum
- Netherlands in talks with Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia about other objects
Entities
Institutions
- Wereldmuseum Leiden
- Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments
- British Museum
- Municipality of Rotterdam
- Dutch State Collection
- Kingdom of Benin
Locations
- Netherlands
- Nigeria
- Leiden
- Rotterdam
- Edo State
- Sri Lanka
- India
- Indonesia