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Cultural Extraction. The Transfer of Cultural Heritage from Africa to Europe, 19th-20th Century
Extraction culturelle. Le transfert du patrimoine culturel d’Afrique en Europe, 19e-20e siècle
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:07:32
Abstract
The seminar offers an insight into the history of the appropriation of Africa's material heritage by European powers between the 1860s and the 1940s.
Objective
The seminar pursues two objectives: on the one hand, to inform about the chronology, methods and actors of the vast heritage translocation that took place during the colonial era between the African continent and Europe. On the other hand, in direct contact with archival documents, to analyze the historical sources that allow us to reconstruct this history that has long remained in the shadows.
Content
We will analyze the different stages of the extraction of cultural heritage from Africa for the benefit of European museums, the actors involved, the techniques employed, the nature of the objects moved, but also the use that may have been made of them (or not), in the capitals of Europe. Furthermore, the consequences of these displacements will be discussed, up to the restitution requests of the 1970s-2020s. Part of the seminar will be organized as "investigations" based on real archival documents.
General Information
- Language
- French
- Levels
- DS , DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 45
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Extraction culturelle. Le transfert du patrimoine culturel d’Afrique en Europe, 19e-20e siècle
Block course
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32 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )