Artifacts acquired by the Museo di Antropologia ed Etnologia come from various Indigenous tribes around the world. Anthropologists use these items to study particular cultures and grasp an understanding of their identities and traditions. However, in return they are treated as a classified “other”, contrasting the expectations of western society. The traditional antiques are displayed in glass cases and arranged aesthetically for viewers to enjoy and learn from. With it a name for the indigenous group paired with a title next to each item. Nowhere does it explain how the personal possessions where obtained. One can relate the setup to the display of a trophy case filled with the spoils taken from these native cultures. The sacred items belong with their original owners to allow for them to reinstate their cultural heritage. Something that was taken and annihilated with the introduction of Europeans to these countries. Effectively bringing about the demise and oppression of each of the civilizations shown in the work.
