2024-D9

3D Model

CMS ID (MOWAA): 2024-D9

Rietberg CMS ID: RAF603

Ama, relief plaque with Prince Odogbo
Royal Guild of Brass Casters (Igun Eronmwon)
Nigeria, Kingdom of Benin, Edo; 16th/17th century; brass
Museum Rietberg, RAF 603
Gift of Eduard von der Heydt
https://rietberg.ch/en/collections/raf-603
According to oral tradition, the naked figure is Prince Odogbo. In his younger years, there were rumors about his gender. To prove that his son was male, his father Oba Ehengbuda (c. 1578–1606) ordered him to appear naked in public. His coral and brass jewelry indicates his high status. As king, he called himself Oba Ohuan and reigned from around 1606 to 1641.
Provenance
16th/17th century Royal Guild of Brass Casters; 1897 Looted by the British Army; Before 1931 Aquired by Paul Eluard; 1931 purchased by Charles Ratton in Paris; 1932 Purchased by Eduard von der Heydt, Ascona; 1952 Donated to the Museum Rietberg, Zurich

Processed by: Femi Johnson