This brass plaque dating from the sixteenth century was seized by British troops from the palace of the Oba (king) of Benin along with many other exquisite items made of brass, bronze, ivory, coral and wood. It shows the Oba surrounded by his attendants and provides an opportunity both to explore the importance and status of the Oba and the wealth and sophistication of the culture of Benin.
From
Benin City, present day Nigeria
Date
AD 1500 – 1600
Culture
Edo peoples
Material
brass cast by the lost-wax (cire perdue) process
Dimensions
height: 51 cm
width: 38 cm
depth: 11 cm
Museum
British Museum
(Please always check with the museum that the object is on display before travelling)