National Museums in Africa: Identity, History and Politics

The National Museums in Africa is a book that examines the roles of national museums in Africa in the context of their historical and political contexts. It explores the interplay between past and present, and the challenges and opportunities presented by new players like China and South Korea in the cultural exchange landscape. The book is the first to critically examine the roles of national museums in Africa and considers the roles that they might play in current debates concerning the restitution and repatriation of cultural patrimony taken from Africa during the colonial era.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The National Museums in Africa play a crucial role in fostering dialogue between African museum professionals and scholars, offering a fresh perspective on the state of African national museums. Spanning all regions of the continent, the thirteen chapters in this comprehensive book delve into the intricate interplay between past and present in contemporary Africa, providing a deep and nuanced understanding of the region. By examining the shifting museum landscape in Africa, where new players like China and South Korea are challenging the traditional conditions of cultural exchange, the book demonstrates that national museums are being re-evaluated as vital sites of political engagement and cultural negotiation. This groundbreaking work is the first to critically examine the roles of national museums in Africa within their specific contexts, while also considering their potential contributions to ongoing debates surrounding the restitution and repatriation of cultural patrimony taken from Africa during the colonial era. Drawing from a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, this book appeals to a wide range of interests, including scholars and students in museum and heritage studies, African studies, anthropology, archaeology, history, art history, and cultural studies. By engaging with the voices of African museum professionals, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics shaping the African museum sector and its role in shaping the continent's cultural heritage.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032058535