The Beninese authorities want to repatriate the recade of King Béhanzin. This type of traditional scepter having belonged to a sovereign of the kingdom of Dahomey was to be sold at auction in Paris last Friday. Its owner is the heir of a former soldier of the colonial troops. “ Free ” Or ” looted ”, depending on the version, this item was in any case withdrawn from sale at the last moment. The Beninese Minister of Culture, Jean-Michel Abimbola, reacts to this affair.
2 mins
Having learned of the sale after the broadcast ofa subject on RFIthe Beninese authorities mobilized to obtain the suspension of the sale. We contacted the Beninese Minister of Culture, Jean-Michel Abimbola. Because Benin has initiated, for several years, a policy of promoting its national collections and repatriation of its heritage, the minister wants this recade, made up of two parts, to be returned to Benin.
Also readBenin obtains the suspension of the sale in France of the recade of King Béhanzin
“ Benin learned that there was the sale of two objects, the gubasa of King Béhanzin – it is a saber -, and his makpo, that is to say a scepter. Benin, with the support of the French Ministry of Culture, obtained the suspension of the auction. Not all the objects that were looted at the time are systematically found in France’s public collections. There are several objects that are in the hands of religious denominations and private individuals. »
In this case, could Benin become a buyer? Or are other restitution mechanisms favored? “ We do not put it on the market because Benin does not intend to raise bids, but we use all possible and legal mechanisms of course to be able to obtain these repatriations. We are in discussions, not only with the French authorities, with the family concerned, and also with the auction house. »
Also listen1/4 An incomplete restitution? – The mystery of the 27th treasure