The Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town, stands as one of the oldest and most significant cultural institutions in the country. With a history spanning two centuries, the museum’s exhibitions have mirrored the dynamic and transformative shifts in both South African society and the world of museums. From its early days as a wunderkammer (a “cabinet of curiosities”) to its current role as a progressive institution committed to decolonisation and social cohesion, the museum’s exhibitions have undergone profound changes. These exhibitions now seek to reflect the richness of South African heritage, promote inclusivity, and foster national pride.
The early days: Wunderkammer and taxonomic displays
Founded in 1825, the Iziko South African Museum was initially inspired by the European tradition of the wunderkammer, or “cabinets of curiosities.” These early displays featured rare and exotic natural history specimens and artifacts from distant lands, reflecting a Eurocentric worldview that prioritized Western knowledge systems over the cultural contexts of the objects. One such exhibit, still standing today, is the Mammal Gallery—a relic of this past. Often likened to a wunderkammer, it serves as a monument to an era when natural history was more focused on possession and classification than on understanding and inclusivity.
The unethical practice of collecting Human Remains
A particularly disturbing chapter in the history of museums, including the Iziko South African Museum, was the practice of collecting and displaying human remains, such as the infamous “Bushman Diorama”. This diorama, which showcased indigenous people as a “primitive,” static and dying race, were created to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and justify colonial ideologies. The skeletal remains of indigenous people were often taken without consent and added to museum collections as objects used for race-based scientific study. This practice not only violated the rights of individuals and communities but also reinforced racial hierarchies that sought to elevate Western civilisation at the expense of indigenous peoples. The legacy of these exhibitions and research practices continue as a painful legacy of museums, one that calls for reflection, apology, and reparation.
A shift toward Visitor Experience: iconic galleries
By the mid-20th century, the Iziko South African Museum’s evolution began to embrace a more holistic approach that incorporated science, art and culture. During this period, the museum introduced several iconic exhibitions that would come to define its identity. One of the most important of these is the Whale Well, a spectacular exhibition dedicated to South Africa’s marine life, featuring a full skeleton of a blue whale among others. This exhibit signified the departure from the museum’s earlier focus on taxonomy, allowing for a more engaging, immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
The African Dinosaurs exhibition further bolstered the museum’s commitment to inclusivity and scientific engagement by showcasing Africa’s rich paleontological history. The exhibition highlights the discoveries of dinosaur fossils in Africa, such as the Massospondylus and other lesser-known species that once roamed the continent. This gallery not only celebrates Africa’s prehistoric past but also seeks to inspire curiosity and learning, offering interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the ancient ecosystems in which these giants lived. The African Dinosaurs exhibition is a crucial part of the museum’s drive to present a uniquely African perspective on natural history, moving beyond the Eurocentric focus that had previously dominated such collections.
In addition to the land-dwelling giants, the Shark World exhibit offers a deep dive into the often-misunderstood lives of sharks and other cartilaginous fish. With a strong emphasis on conservation, this exhibition educates visitors on the critical role sharks play in marine ecosystems, particularly in South African waters. Shark World features life-size models, informative panels, and immersive digital experiences that transport visitors beneath the waves to witness the world of these ancient predators. The exhibit aims to challenge misconceptions about sharks, presenting them as vital, yet vulnerable, species in need of protection. Through this exhibition, the museum continues to highlight South Africa’s diverse marine heritage, building on its legacy of fostering environmental awareness and engagement.
Installation view: Shark World exhibition, Iziko South African Museum, © Iziko Museums/N. Pamplin
A new era: Reimagined exhibitions for a new South Africa
In recent years, the Iziko South African Museum embarked on a profound reimagining. This period of change saw the institution move away from its colonial and Eurocentric past and embrace a more inclusive and decolonised approach to curating exhibitions. The museum began to engage more closely with local communities, scholars, and cultural leaders, ensuring that its exhibitions reflected a broader spectrum of South African experiences. In addition, through a trans-disciplinary approach to storytelling, exhibitions in this period exemplify how art, social history, and science can intersect to present deeper, more multifaceted narratives.
More recently the Humanity exhibition, for example, explored the evolution of humans, highlighting the scientific aspects of human development and emphasising the rich cultural and historical contributions of indigenous people. This exhibition marked a departure from the traditional approach of sharing human evolution as the remarkable series of discoveries largely by white men and rather telling the story of how we came to be so diverse. This exhibition incorporates local narratives and perspectives to offer a more inclusive view of human history.
Humanity, an immersive experience on show at the Iziko South African Museum © Iziko Museums/N. Pamplin
The Hidden Wonders of the South African Museum exhibition invited visitors to explore the fascinating and often overlooked aspects of the museum’s vast collection. Its focus on the lesser-known specimens and artifacts, the museum offered new ways of thinking about science and culture, showcasing the depth of South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.
Installation view: Hidden Wonders exhibition, Iziko South African Museum, © Iziko Museums/N. Pamplin
Exhibitions like The Art of Science and The Sea and Us further exemplify the museum’s commitment to presenting a more integrated, inclusive approach. These exhibitions not only highlight South Africa’s natural beauty but also engage with broader global conversations about sustainability, environmentalism, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
The bicentenary: A celebration of change and progress
In 2025, the Iziko South African Museum celebrates a significant milestone: 200 years of existence. This bicentenary marks an important opportunity to reflect on the institution’s evolution and its role in shaping public understanding of South African history and culture. To commemorate this achievement, the museum has planned a series of groundbreaking exhibitions that continue the journey of transformation.
Among the most anticipated exhibitions is 200 Stories of Change, a celebration of the museum’s commitment to reflecting the natural, social and cultural changes that have shaped modern South Africa. This exhibition will feature a diverse range of specimens, objects, fossils, stories, and artifacts, each representing a different facet of the Iziko South African Museum’s transformation. From the impact of colonisation, apartheid to the ongoing journey of freedom, reconciliation and nation-building, the exhibition aims to showcase the resilience and strength of South African communities.
Other exhibitions such as Amanzi eAfrica (Water for Africa) and Rock Art 2.0 will offer visitors a deeper understanding of South Africa’s rich cultural and environmental heritage. Ships in the Bay, focusing on South Africa’s maritime history, will examine the role of the sea in shaping the nation’s identity, while Living Symbols of Africa will celebrate the significance of indigenous symbols and traditions that have endured through generations.
The museum’s ongoing decolonisation process is evident in these exhibitions, as they move beyond a Eurocentric view of South Africa’s history to embrace a more inclusive and diverse perspective. By consulting with stakeholders, scholars, and cultural experts, the museum is creating exhibitions that are not only educational but also meaningful and transformative. The exhibitions reflect a deep commitment to reconciliation, healing, and social cohesion, aiming to foster a shared sense of national identity.
The value of museums in research and society
While the history of unethical practices in collecting must be acknowledged, it is critical to recognise the significant value that museums provide through their collections for applied research. Today, these collections are instrumental in understanding our nation’s biodiversity, history, and cultural heritage. By studying preserved specimens, ranging from plant and animal life to historical artifacts, museums support research that informs critical decisions about food security, public health, safety, and environmental sustainability.
For example, understanding the ecological impact of past climate events or studying medicinal plants can have direct applications for ensuring the well-being of future generations. Research conducted in museums also aids in monitoring biodiversity, assessing environmental changes, and informing conservation efforts. While museums must confront and address their past transgressions, their evolving role in advancing scientific research and societal good underscores their continuing relevance as educational and research institutions committed to the public good.
A Future of Inclusivity and Transformation
The Iziko South African Museum’s exhibitions have come a long way from their early days as a wunderkammer filled with curiosities from distant lands. The museum has transformed into a dynamic institution that reflects the complexities of South African history, culture, and society. Through its ongoing efforts to embrace inclusivity, consultation, and decolonisation, the museum is working to create a space where all South Africans feel represented and valued.
As the museum moves into its next 200 years, it will undoubtedly continue to evolve, presenting exhibitions that reflect the diversity, resilience, and creativity of South Africa’s people and its incredible natural history. The stories of change that have shaped the museum’s exhibitions serve as a testament to the power of transformation and the role that cultural institutions can play in building social cohesion, promoting national pride, and fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us. Something to Celebrate!
