Brass Figure with a Simple Ceremonial Sword

Brass Figure with a Simple Ceremonial Sword

Benin Culture

before 1985

Benin Culture

West Africa

This brass sculpture in the Stoneman Collection is made in the style of Benin shrine figures, and likely represents a royal individual in the Benin Culture. It is made in traditional Benin style, with simplified, idealized, youthful adult features , outlined eyes, and a forward-facing gaze that symbolizes sight into the spirit world. The figure is also made up of resilient brass, a royal material that represents the continuity of kingship; its reddish color symbolizes royal blood, divinity, and also a threat as it refers to the royal privilege of having the sole right to spill blood or order capital punishment, and this right is believed to deter evil. The figure also wears cast representations of strands of coral beads (another royal material) that have been woven into nets and work as headdresses, clothing, and necklaces. This figure carries a representation of a sword. He also wears a complete outfit of coral beads and a headdress with projecting pieces, but he wears a stylized version of the collar, and he carries only an ada, a ceremonial sword that is carried by pages, priests, and town chiefs. Nevertheless, as the regalia he wears is the prerogative of an oba, he may represent an oba, or he could represent a very important royal official.

Researched by Timberlee Long, MSU Student, 2008, Under the direction of Dr. Billie Follensbee

20th Century

8.4 cm h. x 10.2 cm w. x 31.8 cm d.

Sculpture

Brass

Lost wax casting

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stoneman

1985.29

1985

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