Forgotten prince: swedish court's hidden black scholar finally gets his story

A remarkable figure from 18th-century Stockholm – Adolf Couschi, known as Badin – is finally stepping out of the shadows. A landmark exhibition at the National Museum promises to reveal the extraordinary life of this ‘gift’ delivered to the Swedish royal court, a man who defied expectations and left a lasting, though largely overlooked, legacy.

A life of intrigue and unexpected ascent

Born into slavery around 1747 in St Croix, Couschi’s journey took him from Danish bondage to the Swedish court, where he rose through the ranks – becoming a chamberlain, court secretary, ballet master and civil servant. This incredible trajectory, fueled by his sharp intellect and surprising education, stands in stark contrast to the limited opportunities afforded to individuals of his background during that era.

Diaries and a silent voice

What remains of Badin’s life is a treasure trove: a vast collection of diaries, letters, and an autobiography. These writings, now on display together for the first time, offer an intimate glimpse into the world of 18th-century Stockholm, revealing a man of remarkable sensitivity and a keen observer of his surroundings. His story, however, has been repeatedly relegated to the footnotes of Swedish history, appearing in fictionalized accounts and even a controversial play.

A new perspective through art

Artist Salad Hilowle’s film,