2024_D6

3D Model

MOWAA CMS ID: 2024_D6

Rietberg CMS ID: BBP RAF 602

Title: Ama, relief plaque with Oba Ozolua
Royal Guild of Brass Casters (Igun Eronmwon)
Nigeria, Kingdom of Benin, Edo; 16th/17th century; brass
Museum Rietberg, RAF 602
Gift of Eduard von der Heydt
https://rietberg.ch/en/collections/raf-602
The relief plaque depicts Oba Ozolua (c. 1483–1503), armed with a spear and wearing chainmail or an iron cloak for protection. Under his rule, Benin went from being a regional kingdom to a large empire with numerous vassal states. According to oral history, he fought in over 200 battles.
Provenance
16th/17th century Royal Guild of Brass Casters at the Court of Benin; 1897 Looted by the British Army; Before 1931 Purchased by Han Coray, Zurich; 1940 Purchase by Eduard von der Heydt, Ascona; 1952 Donated to the Museum Rietberg, Zurich

Date of upload: 01/05/2024

Processed by: Femi Johnson