169. Wall plaque, from Oba’s palace. Edo peoples, Benin (Nigeria). 16th century C.E. Cast brass.

• Form and Content
  • Hierarchical proportions: largest figure is the king
  • Symbols of high rank are emphasized
  • King is stepping on a fallen leader
  • Emphasis on heads; bodies are often small and immature
  • Ceremonial scene at court
• Materials
  • One of 900 brass plaques produced, each between 16 and 18 inches
  • Metal products are rare in Africa, making these objects extremely valuable
  • There was an active trade with Portuguese for brass
• Function
  • It decorated the walls of the royal palace in Benin
  • It was part of a sprawling palace complex; wooden pillars covered with brass plaques
• Context
  • Shows aspects of court life in the Benin culture
  • The oba(king) was believed to be a direct descendant of Oranmiyan, the legendary founder of the dynasty