A superb statue of the Oba in war attire

Oba in War Attire - Bini Edo The Kingdom of Benin, to the south of present-day Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent statues and its terracotta sculptures. These works constitute one of humanity's greatest treasures and rank among the masterpieces of museums around the world. The palace of the Oba, where the sumptuous royal shrines were located, was considered the center of the capital and of the kingdom. Benin art is undeniably royal art. Its governance fell to one of the three orders in power, Iwebo (the other two being Iweguae and Ibiwe). This order was responsible for the king's adornments and personal effects. Many artisan guilds were affiliated with this order. They worked mainly for the king and could only undertake commissions for other clients with royal authorization. Bronze founders, ivory carvers, weavers, tailors, and leather artisans are some of the guilds led by the Iwebo. Triadic representations show the Oba surrounded by two men who support his arms and hands; this underscores the fact that the king could not govern or perform his duties alone. This traditional arrangement reflects the typical way in which the king and dignitaries were positioned during ceremonies.

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