Dismantling the Diorama: A Model for Tracing the Origins of Unidentified Human Remains
April 14, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Hybrid: Online and At the Museum
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Dismantling the Diorama: A Model for Tracing the Origins of Unidentified Human Remains
Monday, April 14, 2025, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Earth Theater and online via Zoom
Featuring Dr. Aja Lans, Johns Hopkins University
This lecture is free. Museum admission is not required.
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics at the R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar series.
Click here to register to attend virtually via Zoom. Registration is not necessary to attend in person. Museum admission is not included with the lecture. Visitor Services staff can direct you to Earth Theater on arrival.
Abstract
Lion Attacking a Dromedary has at different places and times varied in name, appearance, and meaning, and has arguably been many different things. Is this diorama a work of art, a historical representation, an artifact, or something in between? The (re)discovery of a human skull contained within its inaccurate depiction of a North African person raises concerns about the ongoing objectification of people of African origin and/or descent, as well as the spectacularization of violence against members of the African diaspora. This talk explores the creation of Lion Attacking a Dromedary and the itinerary of the skull contained within, emphasizing ties to ongoing racial injustices throughout the colonized world. The history of the diorama demonstrates why human remains contained within museum collections need to be re-evaluated and considered for repatriation efforts. In conclusion, archival research combined with stable isotope analyses of teeth provide clues to the skull’s origin.
Biography
Aja Lans is an assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology and Center for Africana Studies at Johns Hopkins University. Her research integrates Black feminism and critical race theory into bioarchaeological investigations. A major area of focus is the objectification of human remains contained within universities and museum collections. She argues for the repatriation of Black Ancestors who are “owned” by such institutions. Outside of the academy, she consults on cultural resource management projects in New York City.
