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Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey (1992–1997)

The Getty Conservation Institute and the West African Republic of Benin's Department of Cultural Patrimony worked together during the mid-1990s to conserve fifty seriously damaged bas-relief panels that once adorned the Salle des Bijoux (Hall of Jewels) in the Historic Museum at the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a World Heritage Site. The bas-reliefs are thought to be the oldest surviving elements of the Royal Palaces, a group of earthen structures built by the Fon people between the mid-17th and late 19th centuries.

This conservation project systematically documented and preserved the polychrome earthen panels, each of which is about three feet square, weighs approximately 500 pounds, and depicts battle scenes and allegorical symbols of the power of the kings of Dahomey. The project also provided local Benin staff with training in conservation, photo documentation, and long-term care of the bas-reliefs.

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Related Getty Publications

PDF

The Getty Conservation Institute, ICCROM, and Ministère de la culture et de la communication du Bénin. Passé, présent et futur des palais et sites royaux d'Abomey:conférence internationale/organisée par le Getty Conservation Institute, l'ICCROM et le Ministère de la Culture et de la Communication du Bénin, 22–26 septembre 1997; actes de la conférence Los Angeles: Getty Conservation Institute, 1999. (182pp., 3.9MB)

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