When Portuguese explorers first made contact with people in western Africa in the late 15th century, new styles of art developed expressing this collision of cultures. A range of these artworks are now in museum collections, including National Museums Scotland.
By the 16th century, trade along the west coast of Africa was regulated by the Oba, or king, of Benin (in modern day Nigeria). The Oba also controlled the court workshops, granting permission for beautifully crafted luxury goods to be made for European trade – the first souvenirs, perhaps.
One of the most fascinating objects produced in Benin for the Portuguese, and one of the first African artefacts to be brought back to Europe, is the carved ivory saltcellar, a synthesis of both African and European style.
This saltcellar consists of three parts, a base, mid-section and lid. The lid is a replacement, carved in the Museum workshop.
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