Basa Museum: Discover the fascinating communication systems of the indigenous

Communication in the Americas - University of Bonn

The current exhibition in the Basa Museum offers a unique insight into the diverse communication systems of the indigenous peoples in America. Objects from different materials such as sound, textile, leather and wood are shown, which illustrate important aspects of cultural communication. While the European letters mainly use abstract signs, the systems of indigenous cultures are primarily visual, which underlines their unique expression and rich traditions.

There are remarkable archaeological finds among the exhibits on display, including small stamps made of Ecuador and an impressive Maya ceramic shell. Thanks to the Pelling-Zarnitz Foundation, this shell is presented in public for the first time. The exhibition also includes a variety of hieroglyphs, symbols and signs that served as a means of communication in pre -Spanish cultures and are still used in indigenous communities today. Even ethnographic exhibits, such as a sheep fur made of Bolivia and a wooden figure from North America, impressively convey the importance of these forms of communication.

The indigenous people of America developed complex visual communication systems before the arrival of Europeans. These systems fulfilled many of the social functions that are also associated with alphabetical writing in a European context. They reflect the knowledge of mankind, document history and enable contact with the divine or supernatural. The presentation of these systems in the special exhibition emphasizes how they shape the worldview of the indigenous peoples and support their social organization.

Admission to the exhibition is free of charge and an accompanying book is available on site for a small price. The opening times of the exhibition are from Tuesday to Friday between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., with the museum being closed on statutory holidays. Announcements on the website of the Basa Museum are available for non-defined opening times.

For more information, Dr. Daniel Grana-Behrens available as a contact person. Interested parties can report by email or by phone.