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By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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KEY TAKEAWAYS |
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Mati Diop’s documentary “Dahomey” explores the return of royal treasures to Benin. |
In 1892, French troops looted over 7,000 artifacts from the Kingdom of Dahomey. |
The film combines documentary and fictional elements to narrate the artifacts’ stories. |
The return of 26 artifacts in 2021 sparked cultural pride and critical discussions in Benin. |
Diop draws inspiration from literary works to address themes of restitution and colonialism. |
The film won the Golden Bear award at the Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting its significance. |
Dahomey: A Cinematic Journey of Restitution and Reclamation
Mati Diop’s influential documentary “Dahomey” has captured attention worldwide. It highlights the emotional and complicated journey of looted African artifacts returning to their homes. This powerful film not only documents a significant historical moment but also pushes viewers to confront the lasting effects of colonialism and the importance of restoring cultural heritage.
Historical Background and Colonial Legacy
“Dahomey” begins its story in 1892 when French troops invaded the Kingdom of Dahomey, which is now part of the Republic of Benin. During this invasion, more than 7,000 royal treasures were taken, causing a deep wound in the cultural identity of the Beninese people. These artifacts stayed in French institutions, mainly at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, for over a century (RFI).
The return of these treasures is part of a movement that calls for cultural restitution to African nations. In 2017, French President Emmanuel Macron gave a speech in Burkina Faso, encouraging European institutions to return these cultural pieces to Africa within five years. This speech marked a key moment for France’s policy on restitution, paving the way for the events captured in “Dahomey” (The Guardian).
Historical Background of the Kingdom of Dahomey
The Kingdom of Dahomey, located in what is now Benin, was one of West Africa’s most powerful states during the 17th to 19th centuries. Known for its strong military and centralized government, Dahomey also had a renowned all-female regiment, the Agojie, often referred to as the “Amazons” by Europeans. This kingdom thrived through a combination of warfare, trade, and diplomacy, but its history became deeply intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade, which greatly influenced its interactions with European colonizers (National Geographic).
What Is Cultural Restitution?
Understanding Cultural Restitution
Cultural Restitution: The process of returning cultural objects, such as artifacts, to their country of origin. These items were often looted during colonial times, and restitution aims to restore the cultural heritage taken from communities. It’s a critical part of healing historical wrongs and reclaiming national identity.
Restitution refers to the legal and diplomatic process of returning artifacts or cultural property to their rightful owners or countries. In the case of African nations, thousands of objects were taken during colonial invasions, and their return is seen as a critical step toward addressing the cultural damage inflicted by colonialism. France has been at the forefront of these efforts, particularly following President Macron’s 2017 speech in Burkina Faso (Fiveable).
Macron’s 2017 Speech: A Turning Point for Restitution
In 2017, French President Emmanuel Macron gave a groundbreaking speech at the University of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, where he pledged to return African artifacts housed in French museums. Macron declared that the return of these objects within five years was a priority, signaling a shift in Europe’s relationship with its colonial past. This speech sparked a broader conversation across Europe about the ethics of holding onto looted cultural treasures (Elysee.fr).
Macron’s speech also led to concrete actions, such as returning 26 artifacts from France to Benin in 2021. However, the majority of the 7,000 artifacts remain in French institutions. Many African countries are continuing negotiations to recover their cultural property, but challenges remain, particularly regarding legal ownership and museum policies. The global conversation on restitution continues to evolve as more nations push for the return of their heritage (RFI).
The Return of Looted Treasures
In 2021, a historic moment occurred when 26 royal treasures from Dahomey finally returned to Benin. These items, including a royal throne and sculptures of warrior kings, carry great cultural meaning for the people of Benin. Diop’s film follows the emotional journey of these treasures from the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris back to their homeland (Yanga TV).
Impact on the Beninese Community
The return of the 26 royal artifacts from the Kingdom of Dahomey was an emotional event for the people of Benin. The objects, which include a royal throne and sculptures of warrior kings, hold deep cultural significance, representing a part of the nation’s identity. Upon their return, large crowds, including government officials and cultural leaders, welcomed the artifacts home, celebrating the first step in reclaiming their cultural heritage (Yanga TV).
While the return of these artifacts was a moment of national pride, many Beninese scholars and students have debated whether the return of just 26 items is enough. Out of the thousands taken, much of the cultural heritage remains in European institutions. However, the return of these treasures has sparked a renewed sense of cultural revival in Benin. Discussions continue regarding how these treasures should be preserved, displayed, and used to educate future generations on the nation’s rich history (RFI).
Narrative and Creative Style
“Dahomey” stands out with its unique mix of documentary and fiction. Diop uses creative narration, giving the stolen artifacts a voice through actors. This artistic method helps viewers connect with the dead and those stripped of their heritage, making the film an unforgettable experience (RFI).
The film blends real-life footage with fantasy elements, such as talking statues. Narration is provided by actors like Lucrece Hougebelo and Didier Sedoha Nassegande, with a script co-written by Mati Diop and Makenzy Orcel. This style allows the film to explore the emotional and cultural meaning of these treasures returning home (The Guardian).
Cultural and Social Influence
The return of these treasures had a major impact on the people of Benin. When they arrived, large crowds and officials welcomed them, signaling a collective reclaiming of their cultural identity. Still, the film addresses the complexities of restitution, featuring debates among students at the University of Abomey-Calavi who discuss the return of only 26 out of 7,000 looted treasures (Yanga TV).
For the people of Benin, the return of these artifacts is a form of justice. It marks the start of addressing past wrongs. “Dahomey” prompts viewers to think about exile and return, not only of objects but also of displaced communities. This film goes beyond a traditional documentary, offering a reflection on the effects of colonialism and the lasting importance of cultural heritage (RFI).
Director’s Inspiration and Vision
Mati Diop found inspiration for “Dahomey” in the planned return of these treasures and the global movement to restore cultural heritage. Aimé Césaire’s “Discourse on Colonialism” strongly influenced her work, and she sought to give voice to the looted objects, reflecting on their long exile (The Guardian).
Diop wanted the film to represent a larger group of souls, including those affected by the slave trade and colonialism. This vision helped “Dahomey” win the prestigious Golden Bear award at the Berlin International Film Festival, an honor Diop believes is shared with the community the film represents (Yanga TV).
Reflections on Restitution and Justice
“Dahomey” is a powerful testament to the ongoing fight for cultural restitution and healing from historical trauma. Through its creative storytelling and engagement with tough issues, the film pushes viewers to think about the lasting effects of colonialism and the importance of reclaiming cultural identity. As discussions around looted artifacts continue, “Dahomey” adds a vital voice to the conversation, reminding us that art can illuminate history and shape how we view justice and identity.
FAQ
Q: What is the documentary “Dahomey” about?
A: “Dahomey” explores the return of looted African artifacts to their homeland, specifically focusing on the significant cultural restitution following the colonial looting of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
Q: Who directed “Dahomey”?
A: Mati Diop directed the documentary, which aimed to give voice to the looted artifacts and represent the communities affected by colonialism.
Q: How many artifacts were returned to Benin in 2021?
A: In 2021, 26 royal treasures, including significant cultural items like a royal throne and sculptures, were returned to Benin.
Q: What impact has the film had on discussions of cultural restitution?
A: “Dahomey” has sparked discussions on the complexities of cultural restitution and the significance of reclaiming cultural heritage, as evidenced by debates among students and public interest.
Q: What unique narrative style does “Dahomey” employ?
A: The film blends documentary and fictional elements, using imaginative narration to personify the artifacts and provide voices through actors, creating a poignant viewing experience.
Q: What recognition has “Dahomey” received?
A: The film won the prestigious Golden Bear award at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting its artistic and cultural significance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.