Art History

August 11, 2022

London Museum Is Returning Over 70 Pieces of Looted Art to Nigeria

The Kingdom of Benin was established in the 13th century in West Africa. From medieval beginnings emerged a powerful kingdom with extensive trade networks, glorious art in bronze and wood, and powerful rulers known as obas. Its capital was Benin City, or Edo, and is still an urban center of present-day Nigeria. In 1897, British troops razed the city—pillaging treasures and burning buildings. Many of these looted works ended up in European museums.

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July 30, 2022

Discover the History Behind the Obelisk, the Ancient Precursor to the Skyscraper

Before there was the skyscraper, ancient builders created the original tall, imposing structure: the obelisk. With origins in ancient Egypt, these four-sided structures were typically erected in commemoration of the rulers and spread in popularity across the ancient world— including ancient Rome and Assyria. Even after the end of these civilizations, the obelisk continued to be a popular monument for its striking yet simple design.

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July 23, 2022

Exploring the Titian’s Renaissance Masterpiece Painting the ‘Venus of Urbino’

The Renaissance was a golden era for art and culture, producing innumerable iconic works of art that are still beloved today. The Venetian master Titian alone left behind an exquisite oeuvre of paintings. One of his best-known masterpieces is called the Venus of Urbino. Depicting a female nude figure in an intimate indoor setting, this work is immediately striking. Instead of being embarrassed about her nakedness, the woman stares directly at the viewer.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.