Colonial period

Definition

The colonial period refers to the time in history when European powers established colonies in Africa and other parts of the world, generally from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. This era was characterized by the exploitation of resources, imposition of foreign cultures, and significant political and social changes within colonized regions, which deeply impacted the creation and perception of African art collections in Europe and North America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The colonial period led to the establishment of ethnographic museums in Europe and North America that showcased African art, often without proper context regarding their origins or meanings.
2. Many African artworks were removed from their original cultural contexts during the colonial period, contributing to misunderstandings about their significance and value.
3. Colonial powers often viewed African art through a Eurocentric lens, which resulted in a distorted representation that emphasized exoticism rather than authenticity.
4. The acquisition of African art during this time frequently involved unethical practices such as looting and coercive trade agreements, raising questions about provenance and ownership.
5. The legacy of the colonial period continues to affect contemporary discussions about restitution of African art to its countries of origin and the representation of African cultures in global art narratives.

Review Questions

• How did the colonial period shape the way African art was collected and perceived in Europe and North America?
  • During the colonial period, African art was often collected in ways that stripped it of its cultural significance. European collectors frequently viewed these artworks as exotic curiosities rather than expressions of meaningful cultural heritage. This perspective contributed to a distorted understanding of African art in Western contexts, leading to stereotypes that persist today.
• In what ways did imperialism during the colonial period influence the creation of ethnographic museums?
  • Imperialism played a critical role in the establishment of ethnographic museums by driving European interest in showcasing artifacts from colonized regions. These museums were often designed to illustrate supposed 'civilizational progress' while portraying non-Western cultures as primitive or exotic. This approach reinforced imperial narratives and marginalized authentic representations of African societies.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural appropriation on contemporary discussions about restitution of African art acquired during the colonial period.
  • Cultural appropriation has become a focal point in contemporary debates regarding the restitution of African art. Many artworks acquired during the colonial period were taken without consent, raising ethical questions about ownership and heritage. Advocates for restitution argue that returning these pieces can help restore dignity to African cultures and correct historical injustices, while critics often cite concerns over museum integrity and global cultural exchange. This complex dialogue illustrates ongoing tensions between historical legacy and modern ethical standards.

Related terms

Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories through colonization, military force, or other means.

Ethnographic Museums: Institutions that collect and display artifacts from different cultures, often created during the colonial period to showcase non-Western societies and their art.

Cultural Appropriation: The act of taking or borrowing elements from a culture, often without permission or understanding, typically seen as a product of colonial relationships.