Plaque - Benin - Nigeria (No Reserve Price)

An extremly rare Brass plate, in the style of Benin, Ama, Nigeria, in shape of a rooster, this seems to be the only depiction of a rooster that has been depicted on a Benin plate. On Digital Benin we find many animal depictions, such as ram, leopard, snake, catfish, crocodile etc, but roosters are usually depicted as a full plastic figure. This is the first time we have collected this form of depiction of a specific animal. The almost square format is also unusual. In the lower area there is an authentic repair, probably immediately after casting, at least it is not a modern weld.

A brass plate in the style of Benin refers to a type of metalwork that closely mimics or is inspired by the renowned Benin Bronzes from the Kingdom of Benin, located in what is now southern Nigeria. These brass plates, typically created as part of a broader tradition of metalwork in Benin, showcase the exceptional skill and artistry of Benin's royal artisans and have great cultural and historical significance.

Key Features of Benin Brass Plates:
1. Materials:
* The plates are typically made from brass or bronze—both metals were highly valued in the Kingdom of Benin.
* The metal was traditionally cast using the lost-wax casting technique (also known as cire perdue), where a wax model of the object is created, then covered in clay. Once the clay hardens, the wax is melted away, and molten metal is poured into the mold to form the object.
2. Design and Iconography:
* Benin brass plates often depict scenes of royal life, court rituals, and history, including depictions of the king (the Oba), the royal family, warriors, and various aspects of courtly life.
* Figures and symbols of power, such as elephants, leopards, and other animals, may be featured, as these animals had significant symbolism within the kingdom.
* Intricate reliefs are common, with figures and motifs depicted in raised forms that are either surrounded by geometric patterns or decorative borders. The relief work is often highly detailed, showcasing great craftsmanship.
* The plates can also feature narrative scenes, such as the tribute-paying process or royal ceremonies, including the Oba receiving tribute from his subjects or leading his army into battle.
3. Symbolism:
* Many designs are symbolic, representing the strength and authority of the Oba (king), the divine connection of the monarch, and the power of the Benin court.
* Geometric patterns and symbols, such as zigzags, interlocking circles, or cross-hatching, may be used to represent spiritual concepts or denote royal authority.
* The elephant is often a symbol of wisdom, strength, and royalty, as elephants were associated with the power of the Benin kingdom.
4. Function and Use:
* Benin brass plates were often used for ceremonial purposes, such as displaying royal power, recording history, or paying tribute to the Oba.
* They were also mounted on the walls of the royal palace or temple, where they would adorn the altar to the ancestors or be part of the royal regalia.
* In some cases, the brass plates would be part of a larger set of objects, including plaques, altarpieces, and benches used in royal court rituals and ceremonies.
5. Historical Context and Significance:
* The Kingdom of Benin, which flourished from the 13th century until its British invasion in 1897, was known for its highly developed artistic traditions, particularly in metalworking, ivory carving, and wood sculpture.
* The Benin Bronzes, including brass plates, were produced mainly under the reign of the Benin Obas (kings), particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries. These pieces were not only artistic masterpieces but also served as historical records of royal achievements and the kingdom’s grandeur.
* After the British invasion and the looting of Benin in 1897, many of the bronzes and brass plates were taken to Europe, where they became highly prized by collectors and museums. The looting has been a subject of controversy, with ongoing debates about the repatriation of these pieces to Nigeria.
6. Benin Art Influence:
* The style of Benin art, including the brass plates, had a significant influence on global art, especially during the colonial and post-colonial periods. The intricate craftsmanship and symbolism of these pieces have made them a symbol of the cultural and artistic richness of African civilizations.
* The aesthetic and narrative power of Benin’s brassworks has inspired artists, historians, and collectors around the world, and many of these works are now housed in museums such as the British Museum, the Ethnological Museum in Berlin, and the National Museum of Nigeria.
Distinctive Style of Benin Brass Plates:
* Benin brass plates are marked by their highly detailed and refined designs, often with a flat, circular shape or sometimes rectangular, though they may also have more abstract forms. The designs typically consist of raised reliefs of human figures and animals.
* Faces and figures in these artworks are often represented in profile, with a specific emphasis on the Oba’s regalia and military or cultural scenes that highlight the kingdom’s wealth, power, and status.
Conclusion:
A brass plate in the style of Benin represents more than just an artistic object; it is a piece of history, culture, and royal symbolism. Whether used in royal courts or in rituals, these brass works are a testament to the sophisticated and complex artistry of the Benin Kingdom. They remain some of Africa's most renowned artistic legacies, continuing to captivate viewers with their beauty, craftsmanship, and deep cultural meanings.