16/06/2026
The 14 Benin artefacts formerly held in our collection are now on their way home to Nigeria. In the weeks leading up to their departure, we spent time preparing them for this journey. On the day of departure, two specialist art handlers arrived to pack the artefacts for transport, creating a custom-made, cushioned crate for each object. Our conservators gave them a hand, and we were impressed by the precision and care with which every piece was handled. As the commemorative heads were placed into their crates, we played a Nigerian hymn.
Before these remarkable artefacts were packed up, colleagues from the Department of Archaeology at the University of Zurich created highly detailed 3D scans of the objects. With the agreement of their new and rightful owner Nigeria, we will retain these digital replicas for research and documentation purposes.
Watching the truck pull away in the rain, carrying the packed artefacts, was an emotional moment. As it disappeared from view, we felt both a sense of loss and a profound sense of joy. We are honoured to have cared for these objects, and even happier to see them return home.
