Problem
A. Among the most significant works of African Art in European collections are the Benin Bronzes. According to the link on the British Museum website, describe what these materials are. What do they represent? How do they come to reside in British collections? Finally, describe the controversy over returning (or repatriating) these objects.
B. Turn your attention to the video featuring historian Gus Casely-Hayford. What is the story behind the ivory mask he discusses? Who is the subject represented there? How does the mask represent trading relations between European and the west coast of Africa in the early modern period?
C. Finally, turn your attention to the outside reading. What changes around the year 1900 or so in the way that African material is viewed in Western Europe? Why, before the 20th century, was African visual culture not viewed as "high art"?
D. What was the role of 20th century European artists in reconsidering African art? Carefully read Picasso's quote and the explanation for it below. What does Picasso find particularly appealing about African art? What are the limitations of Picasso's knowledge of African art?