Africa - RAMM

Containing over 3000 items, this collection of African material has its roots in the colonial 19th century.

Examples include a copper-alloy head from the 1897 punitive expedition into Benin City. There are also magical figures collected by Congo trader Richard E. Dennett. 

A carving of the Yoruba orisha Esu was given to the Reverend Henry Townsend by a local Oba; in fact he was given several items as a sign of their friendship. This collection was donated to the museum in 1868, however, some of these items had already been displayed at the Great Exhibition of 1851!

The following photographs represent a few of the many items that can be found in the World Cultures gallery.

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  Embroidered cushion cover by Sarah Nakisanze
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  Oba figure on horseback
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  Kamba pubic apron
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  Kongo kneeling figure