Saturday, May 25, 2013

Relevance Of Black Memorabilia In The Society

By Tisha Greer


Existence of black memorabilia can be dated way back into the slavery era. Their significance rose over the years as they became significant in explaining the history and events of slavery. They are also considered as a piece of heritage by those who date their existence to this particular era that spewed a great revolution.

The heritage was preserved and still exists in a variety of forms. The most common ones include post cards, posters, artwork and antiques like the weapons or tools they used. Other popular forms include mammy items, edition figures and historical items. Some abstract forms of preservation took the form of poetry, dramatization and music normally performed by African American artists. Film is one of the most popular and highly recognized way in which the message was spread along.

Controversy has been raised as to the issue of keeping and collecting these antiques. A number of people view it as bringing back replenished miserable memories and atmosphere. They claim that the antiques shed negativity on the culture and heritage as well.

Contrary to the negative view, some individuals find the art necessary and significant. They see the antiques as a way of making them appreciate their original culture. They also do this in as a way of recognizing the lengths at which their ancestors went to in order to stop slavery. Others do it purely out of beautification purposes.

The value of these artifacts appreciates with time. This mostly depends on the era it was collected. Those collected in the slavery era appreciate up to over five hundred times the original price that was set upon discovery. This is because of their originality. With time most of these original pieces have been duplicated and introduced to the market. Most people settle for the duplicates as their price is fairly affordable.

Most of the original antiques can be found preserved in museums. This is done in a bid to preserve their authenticity and educate people on the history of the continent. Those who have no access to the specific museums end up settling for the duplicates. These duplicates are distributed largely in many retail or gift shops. People keep personal ones depending on the kind of attachment they have to the antique.

A number of challenges can be faced when getting these antiques. The first challenge is the presentation. Most of the major experiences were left out due to the lack of way in which they could be presented. This means that the part of history presented could easily be forgotten or altered. Most people also refrain from making or presenting the antiques because of the derogatory and sensitive nature they are claimed to pose.

Many people are positively embracing the representation of black memorabilia as opposed to being negative about it. Before buying any artifact it is important to first research on the significance it holds before acquiring it. Culture and heritage are important aspects of the life of any individual hence it is important that people strive to maintain and preserve their livelihood.




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