Kingdom of Benin - Bronze plaque - Edo - Nigeria

igeria Edo African Bronze Height: 330mm Width: 265mm Depth: 20mm Weight: 2650g This 33 cm-tall relief plaque belongs to the famous tradition of the Benin Kingdom bronzes (located in present-day Nigeria, not to be confused with the modern Republic of Benin). This rectangular relief plaque format is the exclusive artistic and historical signature of the Edo people of the Benin Kingdom, primarily produced between the 16th and 17th centuries. Here are the details concerning its stylistic origin and traditional use: 1. Stylistic Characteristics and Iconography The equestrian figure (the Oba or a war chief): The plaque depicts a high dignitary, probably a king (Oba) or a prestigious war chief, mounted on a horse. In Benin art, the horse is a symbol of absolute power, wealth and military authority, as this animal, imported, was extremely rare and costly. The symbols of power: The rider wears a textured tunic reminiscent of chainmail armor or ritual garments made of coral beads, as well as a decorated helmet. He brandishes in one hand a spear or a trident, symbolizing his martial prowess. The carved floral background: The plaque’s background is entirely decorated with incised four-petal flower motifs (often called "river leaves"). This recurring motif in Benin art refers to Olokun, the god of the sea, wealth and fertility. The mounting holes: Four circular holes pierced in the corners of the plaque are clearly visible. 2. Use and Significance: The Chronicles of the Royal Palace These bronze plaques (which are technically brass cast using the lost-wax process) had a precise political, historical and architectural function: Architectural decoration: These plaques were commissioned by the Oba to be nailed directly onto the wide wooden pillars of the immense royal palace of Benin City. Visual archives of the court: Collectively, these hundreds of plaques fixed in the palace functioned like an illustrated history book. They documented the genealogies of the kings, military victories, receptions of foreign ambassadors (notably the Portuguese) and the organization of court rituals. Affirmation of the divine right: By displaying these durable and unalterable representations in bronze, the Oba manifested his military power and his divine origin in the eyes of his subjects and visitors. In summary, this piece is a replica or testimony of the remarkable court art of the Benin Kingdom, originally conceived as an architectural cladding element intended to glorify the exploits of the royal dynasty. The items are sent with a tracking number. Delivery to France by Chronopost in 1 to 2 days. Delivery within the European Union by Chronopost International in 3 to 5 days. Delivery by Colissimo International for the rest of Europe and for the entire World. We speak english. mask african art Afrikanische Maskenkunst arte de máscaras africanas arte delle maschere africane Afrikanische Maskenkunst

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