Narratives of display : presenting African artefacts in Central European ethnography museums

Abstract

This thesis investigates the display and interpretation of African artefacts in ethnographic museums in Central Europe, specifically Austria, Hungary, and Slovenia. It questions museum neutrality and examines how the presentation of these objects affects public perceptions of African heritage. By analysing museography strategies, the research highlights how design and textual choices shape narratives around these artefacts. The study focuses on how African artefacts are contextualised within national histories, especially since these countries lack a direct colonial past. This research contributes to museum education by addressing the representation of marginalised groups and the social-political implications of permanent exhibitions.