It is widely accepted that they date to the 16th-17th centuries. Although frequently described as 'Benin Bronzes' most plaques are made of leaded brass in various compositions. The relief brass plaques that used to decorate the Oba's (king's) palace are among the most well-known of all the royal arts of Benin. Both hold circular leopard skin fans in right hands. Both have tiered hairstyles with long plaits on either side of face, naked except for beaded necklaces and bracelets. The emada figures flanking them also face front. Both have tiered hairstyles, beaded and leopard's tooth necklaces, beaded anklets, baldrics with swords attached and patterened wrap-around skirts. Two innermost figures, facing front, carry ? spears and shields in mirror images. Central section of plaque has three steps with seated leopard figures at top foliate background decoration. Four narrow columns flanking figures show series of rectangular plaques each with single figure. ![]() One nail hole at top, one at centre right and two (?) at bottom right and left.ĭepicts four page figures in front of palace compound, courtyard or altar entrance with high tiled roof and turret with snake slithering down centre. ![]() Background surface decorated with river leaf patterns and stippling. Wide plaque, rectangular in form with side flanges.
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