The Weltkulturen Museum in Frankfurt, originally known as the Städtisches Völkerkundemuseum, is currently investigating the origins of human remains within its collection, which has prompted a critical examination of its founder, Bernhard Hagen. Hagen, who was believed to have worked as a plantation doctor in New Guinea, is linked to the acquisition of these remains during the establishment of the museum in 1904. The museum houses 14 skulls, including that of a young man who died approximately 28 years old, whose remains are encased in handwritten notes by Hagen himself.

As discussions around colonialism and the ethical implications of museum collections grow, the Weltkulturen Museum is not only re-evaluating the historical context of its exhibits but also contemplating future practices regarding the handling and display of human remains. This move reflects a broader trend in the museum community as institutions aim to address their colonial pasts and become more transparent about the origins of their artifacts, particularly those acquired through exploitative means.

The examination of these remains serves as a reminder of the brutal histories associated with colonial exploration and the legacy of exploitation that institutions like the Weltkulturen Museum bear. As the museum delves into its history, it raises critical questions about restitution, reparative justice, and the role of museums in preserving and interpreting human stories responsibly.