Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey
Conservation of earthen bas-reliefs from the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a World Heritage Site
Project Details
- Category
- Years 1992 – 1997
- Status
- Organizer
Cleaning of a bas-relief at the Musée Historique d'Abomey, Abomey, Benin.
About
Goal
The most famous and historically significant site in the West African Republic of Benin is a complex of earthen structures known as the Royal Palaces of Abomey. Earthen bas-reliefs (relief sculptures) were an integral decorative feature of the palaces representing significant events in the evolution of the Fon people. The Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey project sought to study and conserve fifty polychrome earthen bas-relief panels that had been removed from the Salle des Bijoux in the palace building.
Outcomes
- Training of local Benin staff in conservation, photo documentation, and long-term care of the bas-reliefs
- A documentary for the general public entitled History Told on Walls, covering the conservation and cultural significance of the royal bas-reliefs
- Permanent exhibition of the bas-reliefs of the royal palaces of Abomey at the Musée Historique d'Abomey
- A 2000 exhibition at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, on the tradition and conservation of bas-relief art in Benin, West Africa
