Bronze relief, Benin

The bronze relief depicts a narrative scene taking place in front of the sacred residence of the Oba of Benin. The main part depicts several figures in dynamic poses with elaborate ritual clothing, coral neckerchiefs and headdresses. Among the figures are palace guards with ada swords, courtiers and servants performing ceremonial acts. The background of the relief is filled with delicate engraved plant decoration and a traditional river motif that refers to the deity Olokun.

The bronze plaques originally adorned the wooden pillars of the vast royal palace in Benin City. They served as a visual chronicle of the kingdom, recording historical battles, court ceremonies and the hierarchical structure of Edo society. The palace itself was seen as the center of the universe and the ritual center of the empire. This relief demonstrates the absolute secular and spiritual power of the Oba, his wealth and the importance of palace rituals that ensured the stability and prosperity of the entire Benin state.

Nigeria, late 18th and early 19th century, bronze, mounted on a wooden board, board 76 x 49 cm, relief 57 x 40 cm