Book Review: French Primitivism and the Ends of Empire, by Daniel J. Sherman (original) (raw)

The edited volume "French Primitivism and the Ends of Empire" by Daniel J. Sherman delves into the complex interplay between objects, collecting practices, and their significance within the realm of museum studies, particularly against the backdrop of French colonial history. Through various contributions, the book explores themes of representation, objectification, and the evolving role of museums as they grapple with their colonial legacies in the context of modernity and cultural identity. Sherman's interdisciplinary approach is particularly notable for its breadth, engaging with a range of academic disciplines, revealing how the artifacts held by museums serve as a reflection of sociocultural dynamics and the ongoing conversation about memory and history.