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Guide to the Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project Records,

1845-2000 and undated (bulk 1994-1997)
Finding aid prepared by Lauren Jung and Cameron Trowbridge

Descriptive Summary

Title: Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project records

Date (inclusive): 1845-2000 and undated (bulk 1994-1997)

Number: IA50001

Creator/Collector: Getty Conservation Institute

Physical Description: 31.7 linear feet (46 boxes)

Repository:
The Getty Research Institute
Institutional Records and Archives
1200 Getty Center Drive, Suite 1100
Los Angeles, California, 90049-1688
(310) 440-7390
archives@getty.edu

Abstract: The records consist of administrative records, project field materials, project reports, and conference-,
publication-, and exhibition-related materials all concerning the Getty Conservation Institute's field project for the
conservation of the bas-reliefs of the Royal Palaces of Abomey in the Republic of Benin, West Africa. Project
records date from 1994 to 2000 and supplemental reference materials date from 1845 to the 1990s.

Request Materials: Request access to the physical material described in this inventory through its corresponding
library catalog record and click "Request." Click here for general library access policy . See the Administrative
Information section of this finding aid for access restrictions specific to the records described below. Please note,
some of the records may be stored off site; advanced notice is required for access to these materials.

Language: Collection material is in The records are in English and French, with a small amount of Spanish,
Italian, and German materials.

Getty Conservation Institute Field Projects Background Note

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) works to advance conservation practice in the visual arts, broadly
interpreted to include objects, collections, architecture, and sites. It serves the conservation community through
scientific research, education and training, model field projects, and the broad dissemination of the results of both
its own work and the work of others in the field. In all its endeavors, the GCI focuses on the creation and
dissemination of knowledge that will benefit the professionals and organizations responsible for the conservation of
the world's cultural heritage. The work of the Institute is carried out in four main areas: education, field projects,
science, and communications.

The Getty Conservation Institute aims to advance conservation practice worldwide through the development and
implementation of model field projects which incorporate strong research, planning and educational objectives. In
all projects, the GCI works with local partners so as to build local expertise and ensure sustainability. The GCI
broadly disseminates information resulting from its project work through training and publications. All projects
follow recognized international principles of conservation and adhere to the highest standards of practice. These
include an understanding of the cultural significance of the object or site, respect for the multiplicity of values
associated with it, thorough documentation and diagnostic research, and intervention which is minimal, compatible,
and appropriate to local circumstances.

The Getty Conservation Institute is overseen by the J. Paul Getty Trust, a not-for-profit educational organization.
The GCI is housed at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, along with the other programs of the Getty Trust. Its facility
at the Center includes scientific laboratories, programmatic and administrative offices, and a conservation
information center. In addition, the GCI maintains a laboratory at the Getty Villa, also in the Los Angeles area.

For more information see the Getty Conservation Institute website: http://www.getty.edu/conservation/

Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project Background Note

In the mid-1990s, the Getty Conservation Institute and the West African Republic of Benin's Department of Cultural
Patrimony worked together to conserve fifty severely damaged bas-relief panels that once adorned the Salle des
Bijoux (Hall of Jewels) in the Historic Museum at the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a World Heritage Site. Abomey
was the cultural hub of the Kingdom of Dahomey from 1695-1900. The bas-reliefs are thought to be the oldest
surviving elements of the Royal Palaces, a group of earthen structures built by the Fon people between the mid-
17th and late-19th centuries.

This conservation project systematically documented and preserved the polychrome earthen panels, each of which
is about three feet square, weighs approximately 500 pounds, and depicts battle scenes and allegorical symbols of
the power of the kings of Dahomey. The project also provided local Benin staff with training in conservation, photo
documentation, and long-term care of the bas-reliefs.

For more information on the Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project see:
http://www.getty.edu/conservation/our_projects/field_projects/abomey/index.html

Administrative Information
Conditions Governing Access note

With the exception of materials that have been marked restricted or confidential, the records described in
accession 2013.IA.28 are available for use by qualified researchers. Project administration records (Series V) are
closed.

Original recordings are restricted. Use copies do not exist for all audio or video recordings in this collection. The
production of use copies is required before access can be granted and may add a delay to research requests.
Advanced notice is required for the production of use copies.

The following types of records are permanently closed: records containing personal information, records that
compromise security or operations, legal communications, legal work product, and records related to donors. The
J. Paul Getty Trust reserves the right to restrict access to any records held by the Institutional Archives.

Conditions Governing Use note

Contact Library Rights and Reproductions at the Getty Research Institute for copyright information and permission
to publish.

Preferred Citation note

[Cite the item and series (as appropriate)], Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project Records, 1845-
2000 and undated (bulk 1994-1997), The Getty Conservation Institute. The Getty Research Institute (IA50001).

Acquisition Information

The records described in this finding aid originated in accession number 2013.IA.28 and were transferred by the
Getty Conservation Institute in July 2013.

Processing Information note

The materials were organized and the finding aid was created by Lauren Jung and Cameron Trowbridge in 2013.
Cyndi Shein revised the finding aid and prepared it for publication.

Related Materials

The following materials are offered as possible sources of further information on the people and subjects covered
by the records. The listing is not exhaustive.

Approximately 8,000 slides documenting the conservation of the bas-reliefs of the Royal Palaces at Abomey are
available and accessible through the Getty Conservation Institute Information Center.

Additional related materials are available, including images, video, and publications, on the the Getty Conservation
Institute's conservation projects webpage page:
http://www.getty.edu/conservation/our_projects/field_projects/abomey/index.html

Scope and Content of Collection

The Royal Bas-Reliefs of Abomey Conservation Project records, dating 1993-2000 and undated (bulk 1994-1997),
comprise materials used and created by the Getty Conservation Institute for the field project concerning the
conservation of the bas-reliefs of the Royal Palaces of Abomey in the Republic of Benin, West Africa. Also
included are reference materials dating from 1845 to the 1990s. The records consist of project administrative
records (background reference material regarding Benin, correspondence, project agreements, budgets, project
outlines and timelines, and meeting notes), field project materials (in-field conservation documentation, off-prints
and references, and training materials), field reports, audio-visual recordings, and images. The materials document
the development, operation, progress, and results of the Abomey conservation field project, the corresponding
international conference on the Royal Palaces of Abomey, the Getty Conservation Institute print and video
publications about the field project, and two related museum exhibitions.

Arrangement note

The collection is arranged in the following series:

Series I. Core project files, 1845-1998 and undated (bulk 1994-1997);

Series II. Project dissemination and promotion, 1993-1999 and undated;

Series III. Exhibitions, 1994-1995, 1997, 1999-2000 and undated;

Series IV. History Told on Walls video production records, 1994-1997 and undated;

Series V. Project administration records, 1988-1998 and undated. (CLOSED)

Indexing Terms

Subjects - Topics

Art, Bini--Exhibitions
Bas-relief--Benin--Abomey
Bas-relief--Conservation and restoration
Bini (African people)--Social life and customs
Historic sites--Conservation and restoration--Fieldwork

Subjects - Places

Abomey (Benin)--Conservation and restoration--Fieldwork

Genres and Forms of Material

Folk dance music--Benin

Project files
Sound recordings--20th century
Video recordings--20th century
Container List

Series I. Core project files, 1845-1998 and undated (bulk 1994-1997)

Physical Description: 17.1 linear feet (29 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The records comprise reports, reference materials, and audiovisual recordings dating 1845-
1998 and undated (bulk 1994-1997), relating to the Getty Conservation Institute's
conservation of the bas-reliefs at Abomey. The records include preliminary survey forms,
graphic representations, before and after treatment photographs, condition reports,
technique and current state forms, treatment plans and reports, and before and after slides.
The records also include training materials assembled by the Getty Conservation Institute
for field project staff use, which cover conservation techniques, procedures, and photo
documentation, as well as a set of reference binders consisting of photocopied journal
articles, book chapters, and other publications. Additionally, there is video footage
documenting the 4th, 5th, and 6th field campaigns as well as unedited footage of the
Abomey site. The project reports consist of field reports which span the duration of the field
project and document its progress and results. The materials are written in a number of
languages, including English, French, and German.

Arrangement note

Materials are arranged into two subseries:

Series I.A. Field, training, and reference materials, 1845-1999 and undated;

Series I.B. Project reports, 1993-1998 and undated.

Series I.A. Field, training, and reference materials, 1845-1999 and undated (bulk 1994-
1997)

Physical Description: 16.5 linear feet (26 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The records, dating 1845-1997 and undated (bulk 1994-1997), document the Getty
Conservation Institute's field campaigns to conserve the bas-reliefs at Abomey. The
material includes preliminary survey forms, graphic representations, before and after
treatment photographs, condition reports, technique and current state forms, treatment
plans and reports, and before and after slides. Material also includes training material
assembled by the Getty Conservation Institute for field project staff use, which addresses
conservation techniques, procedures, and photo documentation, as well as a set of
reference binders consisting of photocopied journal articles, book chapters, and other
publications related to Abomey and Benin. Additionally, there is unedited video footage of
the Abomey site and video footage documenting the 4th, 5th, and 6th field campaigns.

Arrangement note

The materials are arranged by subject into the following categories: Training materials,
Conservation documentation binders, Additional field materials, Offprints and references,
and Audiovisual materials.

Training materials, 1988, 1994-1997, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-02 Campaign training binder, 1994-1997?

Physical Description: (2 folders)

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Campaign training binder, 1994-1997?

Physical Description: (2 folders)

Box 2013.IA.28-02 6th campaign training binder, 1994-1997?

Box 2013.IA.28-02 Photodocumentation training binder, 1994-1997?

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Legends, 1988

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Basic terminology glossaries, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Proforma examples, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Training materials and references copyright permissions correspondence,

1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-03 New trainees identification forms, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-03 6th and 7th campaign trainee certificates, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Training component evaluation report, undated

 Conservation documentation binders, 1986, 1994-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-05 1. Jarre de terre percée tenue par deux mains, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-05 2. Soldat éventrant eun ennemi, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-05 3. Lion, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-05 4. Recade simple et Akpola, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-05 5. Tête attachée a un arbre, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-06 6. Lion, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-06 7. Recade et fusil, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-06 8. Homme/Calao, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-06 9. Lion, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-06 10. Goubassa: Récades de Guezo, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-07 11. Soldat tirant dans la bouche d'un ennemi, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-07 12. Lion, 1986, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-07 13. Un sabre/un récade, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-07 14. Ennemi subissant un supplice, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-07 15. Lion, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-08 16. Sabre de Migan recade de Kpengala, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-08 17. Tête se balançant au cou d'un cheval, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-08 18. Lion, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-08 19. 2 bâton de chasse, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-08 20. Scéne de bataille à trois personnages, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-09 21. Lion, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-09 22. Goubassa/Hachette, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-09 23. Tête au cou d'un cheval, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-09 24. Lion, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-09 25. Sabre/Hachette, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-10 26. Hyéne mangeant un serpent, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-10 27. Lion, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-10 28. Récade avec tête de cheval/sabre, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-10 29. Teste se balançant au cou d'un cheval, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-11 30. Lion, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-11 32. Caméléon tenant un Goubassa, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-11 33. Lion, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-11 34. Crâne surmonté d'un bois et recade de Behanzin, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-11 35. Daguessou mâle, 1986, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-11 37. Tête surmonté d'une iarre, 1986, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-12 38. Daguessou mâle, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-12 39. Lion, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-12 40. Deux hommes buvant dans un verre, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-12 45. Eléphant, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-12 46. Caïman attrapant un poisson, 1986, 1994-1995, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-13 47. Chasseur portrant une biche, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-13 48. Une nasse et un poisson, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-13 49. Kpaligan (héro royal) juché sur un echaffaudage, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-13 50. Homme portrant un epi de mil sur la tête, 1986, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-13 51. Soldat décapitant un homme à cheval, 1986, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-14 52. Soldat décapitant un Geurrier tennant une flûte, 1986, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-14 53. Scéne de pendaison à 3 personnages, 1986, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-14 54. Buffle et canard, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-14 55. Deux guerriers en position de lutte, 1986, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-14 56. Soldat aboméen enfonçant un couteau, 1986, 1994-1995

Additional field materials, 1993-1997, 1999, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Field notebook facsimile, 1994-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Francesca Pique field notebook, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Soil/mineralogical analysis report and pigment analysis sample collection list,
1993

General note

Please note: Physical samples are available to researchers in the GCI Reference
Collection.

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Report on bas-relief sample cross-sections, 1999

General note

Please note: Physical samples are available to researchers in the GCI Reference
Collection.

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Supplies inventories, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Web sling catalogs and instructions, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-03 Abomey FPO scans (low resolution), circa 1999

Physical Description: (1 Jaz disk for Macintosh)

Box 2013.IA.28-04 List of bas-reliefs, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Bas-reliefs inventory and drawings, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Bas-relief transportation and storage plan, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Diagrams and plans, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Visual materials inventories, 1996, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Neuchatel Abomey images: contact sheet photocopies, 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Computer-generated bas-relief reintegration images, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Signage, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Invitations, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Technicians correspondence, 1994-1996

 Offprints and references, 1845-1997, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-15 Volume 1, 1845-1988, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-15 Volume 2, 1908-1996, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-16 Volume 3, 1964-1994, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-16 Volume 4, 1984-1996, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-17 Volume 5, 1995-1997, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-18 Abomey Project bibliography and off-prints A-B, 1861-1991, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-19 Abomey Project off-prints C-J, 1895-1934, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-20 Abomey Project off-prints K-N, 1911-1993, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-21 Abomey Project off-prints O-R, 1963-1993, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-22 Abomey Project off-prints S-Z, 1920-1992, undated

Audiovisual materials, 1984, 1993-1996, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-30 Abomey Musée Historique walk-through video footage, 1993

Physical Description: (VHS tape: 3 copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Abomey Musée Historique walk-through video footage, 1993

Physical Description: (1 Hi8mm tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 Abomey Project inauguration ceremony video, March 7, 1994

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape NTSC copy; 1 VHS tape PAL copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Abomey Project inauguration ceremony video, March 7, 1994

Physical Description: (1 Hi 8mm tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 Musée d'Abomey bas-reliefs conservation documentation video footage,

November 1994

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 4th campaign documentation video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 4th campaign documentation video footage, March 1995

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 5th and 6th campaigns documentation video footage, October 1995-March
1996

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-32 Magazine Français No. 8: Formation des maires au Togo, Sites rouyaux
d'Abomey, et Danses rituelles, 1984

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-34 Histoire et Mémoires de Ouidah, 1995

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-34 La famille Adjaho en concert, undated

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Series I.B. Project reports, 1993-1998 and undated

Physical Description: 0.6 linear feet (3 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The records comprise field reports, dating 1993-1998 and undated, which span the duration
of the field project and document its progress and results. Included are campaign trip
reports, overviews, and field reports, written by project leaders Leslie Rainer and Francesca
Piqué, which outline the preliminary plans of the project, as well as the progress and results
 of each of the project field campaigns. Also included are reports written by the project
trainees. The campaign reports are in English and are often accompanied by a French
translation.

Arrangement note

The materials are arranged in three sets: Initial site report and campaign reports, Trip and
project reports, and Project reports by trainees. Within each set of materials the folders are
arranged in rough chronological order.

Initial site report and campaign reports,

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Report on site visit 15-19 March 1993, April 20, 1993

Box 2013.IA.28-04 1st campaign trip report and notes, November-December 1993

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Report on first campaign, 1993

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Video documentation campaign, January-February 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 Training report for 2nd campaign, March 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 2nd campaign trip report, June 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 3rd campaign overview, November 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 3rd campaign field report, February 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-04 3rd campaign photographic documentation report, November 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-04 4th campaign overview, February 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 4th campaign overview (French), February 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 4th campaign trip report, March-April 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 4th campaign field report, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 4th campaign field report (French), 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 4th campaign photographic documentation report, March 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 5th campaign overview, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-23 5th campaign trip report and 6th campaign overview, February 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 5th and 6th campaigns field report, July 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 5th and 6th campaigns field report (French), July 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 5th and 6th campaigns photograhic documentation report, 1995-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 6th campaign overview, February 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 6th campaign trip report, May 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 Interim work period trip report, September 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 Interim work period photographic documentation report, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-23 Interim work period and 7th campaign field report, August 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-23 Interim work period and 7th campaign field report (French), August 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-23 7th campaign overview, January 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-23 7th campaign overview (French), January 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-23 7th campaign photographic documentation report, February 1997

Trip reports and project reports

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Zugazagoitia reports, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-24
 Leslie Rainer trip report: research on historic documentation of the bas-reliefs
of the Royal Palaces of Abomey, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-24 S. Small and M. Hebrard 6th and 7th campaign reports, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Abomey Project: conservation of the bas-reliefs from the Adjalala of Glélé at
the Royal Palaces of Abomey: final report, May 1998

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Abomey Project: conservation of the bas-reliefs from the Adjalala of Glélé at
the Royal Palaces of Abomey: final report (French), May 1998

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Blier report, undated

Project reports by trainees

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Léonard Ahonon, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Justin Alaro, 1994-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Dorothé Ayadokoun, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Adigninou Janvier Houlonon, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Gilbert Kinkin, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Dorothé Mizechoun, 1994-1996

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Constant Noanti, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Constant Samson, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Abomey technicians reports, 1995-1996

Series II. Project dissemination and promotion, 1993-1999 and undated

Physical Description: 3.2 linear feet (10 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The records, dating 1993-1999 and undated, consist of internal and external press articles
about the bas-relief conservation project in Abomey and the Getty Conservation Institute's
(GCI) participation in the project. The materials include the GCI Conservation Newsletter
articles featuring the Abomey conservation project and an interview with Rachida de Souza
(Director of Benin's Department of Cultural Heritage). Also included are presentations,
publications, and audiovisual recordings focused on the project.

The press materials comprise internal and external press articles regarding Abomey and
the Getty Conservation Institute's participation in the project. The GCI Conservation
Newsletter articles feature the Abomey project and an interview with Rachida de Souza
(Director of Benin's Department of Cultural Heritage). The presentation materials consist of
content from presentations about the Getty Conservation Institute's participation in the
Abomey conservation project. Materials date 1993-1999.

The conference materials, dating 1995-1997, 1999 and undated, document the planning
and execution of the international conference, "Passé, Présent, et Futur des Palais e Sites
Royaux d'Abomey," held in the Republic of Benin in September 1997. The materials
comprise administrative records and planning documents, including proposals, outlines,
budgets, correspondence, agreements, and images permissions; conference ephemera,
including programs, invitations, and other materials given to conference participants; and
the published conference proceedings. Also included are video recordings of the opening
and closing ceremony of the conference in various formats.

The book publication materials, dating from 1996 and 1999, consist of the book proposal
and final publication of Palace Sculptures of Abomey: History Told on Walls, a Getty
Conservation Institute publication that provides an overview of the bas-relief conservation
project at Abomey.

The audiovisual materials, dating from 1995, consist of an animated short featuring the bas-
reliefs of Abomey, which may have been shown at the international conference Passé,
Présent, et Futur des Palais e Sites Royaux d'Abomey.

Arrangement note

Materials are arranged in four sets: Press releases, articles, and presentations; "Passé,
Présent, et Futur des Palais e Sites Royaux d' Abomey" international conference; Palace
Sculptures of Abomey publication; and Audiovisual materials.

Access Information

With the exception of materials that have been marked restricted or confidential, the
records described in accession 2013.IA.28 are available for use by qualified researchers.
 Press releases, articles, and presentations,

Box 2013.IA.28-24 Abomey Project press release, 1994

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Internal GCI publications regarding Abomey conservation project, 1993, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-25 External writings regarding Abomey and conservation project, 1993-1998,
undated

Box 2013.IA.28-29 GCI Conservation Newsletter Vol. 11, No. 1, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-25 GCI Conservation Newsletter Vol. 12, No. 1 (French), 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Interview with Rachida de Souza, Département du Patrimoine Culturel, December
8, 1995

Physical Description: (1 analog audiocassette)

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Interview with Rachida de Souza, Département du Patrimoine Culturel, December
10, 1995

Physical Description: (1 analog audiocassette)

Box 2013.IA.28-24 ICOM-CC Abomey presentation text, 1999

Box 2013.IA.28-24 "Getty Now" presentation text and photocopies of slides, 1997

"Passé, Présent, et Futur des Palais e Sites Royaux d' Abomey" international
conference,

Conference proceedings online: Passé, Présent, et Futur des Palais e Sites Royaux d'
Abomey

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference proposals, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference outline and trip report, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference planning documents, 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference fact sheet, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Correspondence: Alain Godonou/PREMA, 1996-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Correspondence: Gael de Guichen/ICCROM, 1997-1998

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Correspondence: Ministry of Culture and Communications, 1995-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Correspondence: Constant Samson, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Correspondence: Rachida de Souza, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference announcement, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference invitation, 1997

Physical Description: (3 copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Conference budget, 1996-1997

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Conference agreement, 1997

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Motel d'Abomey letter of agreement, 1997

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Conference participants letters of agreement, 1997

Access Information

RESTRICTED.
Box 2013.IA.28-28 Conference contacts database, [undated]

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Conference proceedings images permissions, 1999

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-25 List of conference participants, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-25 Conference program, 1997

Physical Description: (3 copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Invitations for conference opening and closing ceremonies and receptions, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference opening speech by Giora Solar (printed version), 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Opening ceremony introductory remarks by Emmanuel Voglozin, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Communication to the conference from the vice-president of the "Cansah," circa
1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference closing speech by Miguel Angel Corzo (printed version), 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Motion of African professionals, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference press kit, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference stationery, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference ephemera, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference evaluation forms, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference proceedings, 1999

Physical Description: (printed version, 3 copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference t-shirt, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-26 Conference tote bag, circa 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-31 Conference opening ceremony video footage, circa September 1997

Physical Description: (4 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-42 Conference opening ceremony video footage, circa September 1997

Physical Description: (1 Betacam copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-31 Unedited conference opening and closing ceremony video footage, 1997

Physical Description: (6 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Conference video footage, 1997

Physical Description: (set of 4 Hi8 tapes)

Palace Sculptures of Abomey publication,

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Publication idea proposal, 1996

Palace Sculptures of Abomey: History Told on Walls by Francesca Pique and

Leslie H. Rainer, with contributions by Jerome C. Alladaye, Rachida de Souza-
Ayari, Suzanne Preston Blier, 1999

Palace Sculptures of Abomey View full text online

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Palace Sculptures of Abomey: History Told on Walls final printed version,
1999

Audiovisual materials,
Box 2013.IA.28-31 Abomey Animation (English), 1995

Physical Description: (1 VHS copy, 1 S-VHS master copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-31 Abomey Animation (French), 1995

Physical Description: (2 VHS copies, 1 NTSC S-VHS master copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-46 Abomey Animation by Candice Pinchart, edited version, 1999

Physical Description: (1 Betacam master)

Series III. Exhibitions, 1994-1995, 1997, 1999-2000, and undated

Physical Description: 2.2 linear feet (4 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The records, dating from 1994-1995, 1997, 1999-2000, and undated, consist of documents
relating to two different exhibitions; 1) the permanent exhibition of the bas-reliefs of the
royal palaces of Abomey at the Musée Historique d'Abomey, and 2) an exhibition at the
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts focused on the tradition and conservation
of bas-relief art in Benin, West Africa.

The Musée Historique d'Abomey exhibition materials, dating 1994-1995, 1997, and
undated, comprise documents relating to the permanent exhibition of the bas-reliefs of the
Royal Palaces of Abomey at the Musée Historique d'Abomey, including the exhibition plan,
layout, text, and signage.

The Kennedy Center exhibition materials, dating 1999-2000 and undated, document the
joint exhibition between the Getty Conservation Institute and the Kennedy Center on the
tradition and conservation of bas-relief art in Benin, West Africa. The materials include
administrative records, such as correspondence, budgets, schedules, image reproduction
rights and music permissions, and an exhibition agreement. The materials also include
ephemera from the exhibition, such as brochures and invitations, as well as press releases,
printouts of the exhibit website, and images of the exhibit.

Arrangement note

Materials are arranged into two sets based on the venue of the exhibition: Musée
Historique d'Abomey and John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Access Information

With the exception of materials that have been marked restricted or confidential, the
records described in accession 2013.IA.28 are available for use by qualified researchers.

Abomey bas-relief exhibition at Musée Historique d'Abomey,

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Document on the future of the Abomey bas-reliefs: permanent exhibition after
conservation, 1994-1995

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Object list and storage locations for originals, February 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-29 Permanent exhibition layout, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Permanent exhibit Getty Conservation Institute plaque mock-up, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Musée Historique d'Abomey exhibit text, undated

Abomey bas-relief exhibition at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts,

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Correspondence, 1999-2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit storyline, schedule, and letter of intent, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit technical sheet master, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit artifacts inventory, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit trip report, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-29 Exhibit final design development presentation, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit opening guest list, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit opening invitation, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Invitation for reception honoring Cyprien Tokoudagba, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit brochures, circa 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit docent script, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibition press releases and articles, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit images, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Exhibit website, 2000

Box 2013.IA.28-46 Cyprien Tokoudagba, Dance and Music from Benin video recording, circa 1999

Physical Description: (1 Betacam master)

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Budget, 1999

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Exhibition agreement, 2000

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Exhibit images reproduction rights, 2000

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Cyprien Tokoudagba contract and visa, 1999-2000

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Angelique Kidjo music permissions correspondence, 2000

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Series IV. History Told on Walls video production, 1994-1998 and undated

Physical Description: 8.5 linear feet (16 boxes)

Scope and Content Note

The materials, dating 1994-1997, comprise audiovisual recordings and production records
about the Getty Conservation Institute's video production History Told on Walls, which
documents the Abomey bas-relief conservation field project. The materials include project
proposals and outlines, correspondence, budgets, filming permissions, and scripts. The
audiovisual materials include raw video footage of scenes used in the final production, as
well as final video production in French and English. Raw video footage may also include
scenes that do not appear in the final edit. Audiovisual formats include Betacam, Hi8mm,
VHS, analog audiocassette, and DVD.

Arrangement note

Material is intellectually arranged with documentation of the project first, followed by a

description of the audiovisual material.

Access Information

With the exception of materials that have been marked restricted or confidential, the
records described in accession 2013.IA.28 are available for use by qualified researchers.

Original recordings are restricted. Use copies do not exist for all audio or video recordings
in this collection. The production of use copies is required before access can be granted
and may add a delay to research requests. Advanced notice is required for the production
of use copies.

Project documentation

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Initial proposal and outline, circa 1995

Box 2013.IA.28-27 History Told on Walls script, 1997

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Script outline, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 History Told on Walls report, undated

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Correspondence, 1994-1997

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Film budget, 1995

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Stephen Rickerby letter of agreement, 1996

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Box 2013.IA.28-28 Filming permissions, 1994

Access Information

RESTRICTED.

Audiovisual material and transcript

Access Information

Original recordings are restricted. Use copies do not exist for all audio or video recordings
in this collection. The production of use copies is required before access can be granted
and may add a delay to research requests. Advanced notice is required for the production
of use copies.

Box 2013.IA.28-32 Benin raw video footage, 1994

Physical Description: (set of 9 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-32 Video footage of images from Abomey, 1995

Physical Description: (set of 2 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-46 Dance and Music from Benin, 1998

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape, NTSC)

Benin II raw video footage:

Physical Description: (set of 21 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-33 Benin II, 1996

Physical Description: (13 VHS tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-34 Benin II, undated

Physical Description: (8 VHS tapes)

History Told on Walls raw video footage:

Physical Description: (set of 67 tapes)

Box 2013.IA.28-35 History Told on Walls raw video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (14 Betacam tapes: 3.75 inches x 6 inches; numbered 1A

through 9A, and 1C through 5C)

Box 2013.IA.28-36 History Told on Walls raw video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (14 Betacam tapes: 3.75 inches x 6 inches; numbered 6C

through 19C)

Box 2013.IA.28-37 History Told on Walls raw video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (14 Betacam tapes: 3.75 inches x 6 inches; numbered 20C
through 34C)

Box 2013.IA.28-38 History Told on Walls raw video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (14 Betacam tapes: 3.75 inches x 6 inches; numbered 35C
through 45C)

Box 2013.IA.28-39 History Told on Walls raw video footage, 1995

Physical Description: (11 Betacam tapes: 3.75 inches x 6 inches; numbered 46C
through 56C)

Box 2013.IA.28-44 Audio interview with King Agoli Agbo, undated

Physical Description: (1 analog audiocassette tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-27 Transcript of interview with King Agoli Agbo, 1996

Box 2013.IA.28-40 History Told on Walls first draft, undated

Physical Description: (1 VHS tape)

Box 2013.IA.28-30 History Told on Walls: conservation of the bas-reliefs of Abomey (Benin
promotional video), undated

Physical Description: (VHS tape: 2 copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-40 History Told on Walls, 1996-1997

Physical Description: (1 VHS PAL conversion master; 3 NTSC VHS copies; 4 VHS
SECAM V copies; 1 PAL DVD copy; 1 NTSC DVD copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-42 History Told on Walls, undated

Physical Description: (3 Betacam NTSC 3/4" U-matic copies; 1 Betacam PAL

conversion master; 1 SECAM V conversion master)

Box 2013.IA.28-41 L'histoire racontée sur les murs, 1997

Physical Description: (3 PAL VHS copies; 4 NTSC VHS copies; 1 PAL DVD copy)

Box 2013.IA.28-42 L'histoire racontée sur les murs, undated

Physical Description: (1 Betacam PAL conversion master)

Box 2013.IA.28-43 L'histoire racontée sur les murs, undated

Physical Description: (2 Betacam 3/4" U-matic copy; 2 Betacam QCED copies)

Box 2013.IA.28-41 The Getty Conservation Institute: the bas-reliefs project in Abomey, Benin (select
tape, work in progress), undated

Physical Description: (3 VHS copies)

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