Tracing Tibetan Objects: The ‘Forgotten’ Von Siebold Collection and Early Tibetan Collections at the Wereldmuseum Leiden

This study explores the ‘Forgotten’ Von Siebold collection housed at the Wereldmuseum Leiden, highlighting three early Tibetan collections that reflect the intersection of culture, religion, and colonial history. This thesis examines the historical context surrounding the collection, acquired by Philipp Franz Von Siebold in the 19th century, and its significance in relation to the Van Manen and Serie 2845 collections. Through a detailed analysis of the Tibetan artefacts, including thangkas, ritual vessels, and musical instruments, the research aims to understand the formation of the Von Siebold collection. In addition to a comparative analysis with the two other Tibetan collections, this study seeks to uncover patterns in the acquisition and typology of early Tibetan collections at the Wereldmuseum Leiden. Furthermore, the discourse on acquisition practices, repatriation, and the evolving narrative of ‘Museum Tibet’ emphasises the importance of transparency and ethical...Show moreThis study explores the ‘Forgotten’ Von Siebold collection housed at the Wereldmuseum Leiden, highlighting three early Tibetan collections that reflect the intersection of culture, religion, and colonial history. This thesis examines the historical context surrounding the collection, acquired by Philipp Franz Von Siebold in the 19th century, and its significance in relation to the Van Manen and Serie 2845 collections. Through a detailed analysis of the Tibetan artefacts, including thangkas, ritual vessels, and musical instruments, the research aims to understand the formation of the Von Siebold collection. In addition to a comparative analysis with the two other Tibetan collections, this study seeks to uncover patterns in the acquisition and typology of early Tibetan collections at the Wereldmuseum Leiden. Furthermore, the discourse on acquisition practices, repatriation, and the evolving narrative of ‘Museum Tibet’ emphasises the importance of transparency and ethical considerations when displaying Tibetan culture in a European museum. The conclusion seeks to answer the research questions, highlight the study's limitations, and propose future research. This study critically examines the ‘Forgotten’ Von Siebold collection and the role of Wereldmuseum Leiden in presenting Tibetan culture within a museum context.Show less

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Tracing Tibetan Objects: The ‘Forgotten’ Von Siebold Collection and Early Tibetan Collections at the Wereldmuseum Leiden