The Igbo-Ukwu bronzes will be restored and preserved in the National Museum in Lagos thanks to a grant from the Bank of America Arts Conservation Project 2022 worth US$40,000.
This information was released in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja by Mr. Abba Tijani, Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
According to Tijani, the grant money will be used to restore 350 unique Igbo-Ukwu bronze artefacts, which are among the 19 significant worldwide art conservation projects chosen.
According to Tijani, the Igbo-Ukwu bronzes’ initial award for conservation came from the Bank of America Arts Conservation grant.
The National Museum will be able to undertake a structural study, gather, and complete thorough conservation and treatment on a total of 350 culturally significant artefacts of Igbo-Ukwu provenance in its collection, he said, thanks to the donation.
The NCMM D-G also stated that an expert conservator would provide assistance during the restoration procedure, which would last around eight months on-site at the National Museum.
“The Bank of America’s Art Conservation Project has supported the conservation of more than 6,000 individual pieces since 2010.
“They include paintings, sculptures, archaeological and architectural pieces of critical importance to cultural heritage and the history of art.
“More than 200 projects across 39 countries have been managed by non-profit cultural institutions that receive grants to conserve historically or culturally significant works of art that are in danger of deterioration.
“The National Museum, Lagos, will restore the Igbo-Ukwu Bronzes, elaborately decorated bronze works, dating from the 9th century, in need of conservation to keep the objects in proper form.
“The grant provides an avenue for proper and adequate conservation of Igbo-Ukwu objects, especially some that are already corroded and needed to be restored.
“It allows the National Commission for Museums and Monuments the opportunity to exhibit objects in their best states for public education and enlightenment,” Tijani said.
The funding provided to the Museum, according to Mr. Brian Siegel, Global Arts and Heritage Executive, was intended to aid in the preservation of artefacts and cultural remnants in order to preserve history.
“Through the Art Conservation Project, we have an opportunity to shine a light on the perpetual need for conservation and preservation.
“Our support helps to ensure that future generation can celebrate and enjoy these historic works of art for years to come,” Siegel said.
From the Igbo ethnic groupings of South Eastern Nigeria, the unique historical Igbo-Ukwu artefacts date back to the 9th to the 11th century AD.
The items depict artefacts from the Igbo Isaiah, Igbo Jonah, and Igbo Richard.
Excellent insect and other realistic depictions on the surfaces are their most distinctive qualities.
