Benin Bronzes

Images
Country & Timeline

Country: Nigeria

Timeline: 14th-19th century CE

Description

Several thousand metal plaques and sculptures that decorated the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin (now Edo State, Nigeria). Created by a specialist guild for the Oba (king) using lost-wax casting. Depict scenes from the kingdom's history, including dynastic and social history, relationships with neighboring kingdoms, and European traders.

Image URLs
Academic Source
  • British Museum: Benin Bronzes <br> Wikipedia: Benin Bronzes <br> University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee: The Case of the Benin Bronzes: Exploring Repatriation in U.S. Museums
Current State

Housed in various museums worldwide (British Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, etc.). Many looted in 1897 and subject to repatriation discussions.

Testimony

Advanced artistic and technical capabilities of the Edo people of the Kingdom of Benin. Reflect a highly sophisticated society with rich cultural heritage, advanced metalworking skills, and a complex social and political structure. Highlight the kingdom's interactions with European traders and its role in regional politics and trade networks.

Pride

Immense pride for Nigerians and Africans worldwide. Represent rich cultural heritage and artistic achievements of their ancestors, challenging misconceptions about pre-colonial African civilizations. Celebrated for beauty, craftsmanship, and historical significance. Inspire contemporary African artists and cultural movements. Repatriation efforts symbolize reclaiming of cultural identity and heritage.

Citations
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