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Benin Palace Wall Plaque
People: Bini
Area: Republic of Benin
Material: Bronze (copper and tin)
Size: 10.5"
For more than 500 years, the artists of the West African kingdom of Benin created objects in brass, ivory, terracotta and wood for use in divine kingship rituals, to adorn the royal placace, and to identify the king, chiefs warriors and other officials at court.
Almost all Benin art was created to honor the king , or Oba, who has reigned, with his ancestors, from the 15th century. Styles have changed over the years.
Plaques like these were mounted on the walls of the Oba's Palace and recorded the history of the Benin kingdom. Most depict the king or warrior chiefs.
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