Chief Bokani

myminifactory

This enigmatic cast of Chief Bokani, taken by Welsh Sculptor Goscombe John in 1905, presents a mysterious figure from the early 20th century. Bokani was part of a group of six African Pygmies who were brought to the Natural History Museum in London as living specimens for scientific study. They apparently embarked on a theatrical tour with William Hoffman, visiting various British theaters and captivating audiences with their performances. It is possible that this cast of Bokani was taken during one such performance at Edinburgh's Empire Theatre on Nicolson Street. During this tour, the group encountered King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, reportedly entertaining as many as a million British citizens. When not touring, they resided in Yorkshire, following a pattern that continued until 1908 when the Pygmies returned to their homeland. A recording of Chief Bokani speaking Swahili marked a significant milestone in British music history, becoming the first commercial recording of African music or language in the country. Made in 1905, the same year as his cast, it was sold from 1906 onwards, captivating listeners with its unique sounds. Chief Bokani's story serves as a poignant reminder of the prevailing attitudes towards race and science during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This collection of casts offers a fascinating glimpse into the scientific community's preoccupation with collecting and studying individuals from diverse racial backgrounds, often using them as living specimens for research purposes.