This week, year 5 visited the Horniman Museum to look at artefacts from Ancient Benin. We had a wonderful time exploring the ‘around the world’ exhibit which showcased objects and clothing from all over the world. We particularly took interest in the artefacts from Ancient Benin, and we were able to spot some objects that we had studied in class.
Afterwards, we took part in a workshop where we could handle artefacts and explore how some of the objects are made in Benin Kingdom. We discussed the ethical ownership of the artefacts that were taken in the Punitive Expedition of Benin in 1897. In one of our history lessons, we had a passionate debate on this topic, so we were able to share our knowledge brilliantly with the workshop leader.
Michael Faraday 