Although similar in style to many older works, the pieces below are 20th C. and were made to be soldin bronzes are very rare.

BENIN STYLE Object 3 17.5" high SOLD

BENIN STYLE Object 15 21" high $600

BENIN STYLE Serpent Head 12 13" long $600

BENIN STYLE BRONZE OBJECTS, Nigeria

Although similar in style to many older works, these pieces are 20th C. and were made to be sold.

The extraordinary bronzes of the Benin kingdom in what is now Nigeria exhibit a virtuosity and sophistication of style that has astonished the Western world since they were visited in the 15th Century. Their work was brought to Europe following a punitive expedition by the British in 1897, causing a great sensation. The people of Benin, called Bini, are descended from the Ife, also known for their remarkable bronzes. Almost all Benin art was created to honor the king , or Oba, who has reigned, with his ancestors, from the 15th century. Styles have changed over the years. Although similar to many older works, these are all 20th C. pieces. Each is still sculpted by hand, then cast in bronze by the lost wax process.

GO TO BENIN STYLE OBJECT ARCHIVES PAGE (ALL SOLD)

GO TO BENIN STYLE FIGURES PAGE

GO TO BENIN PLAQUES ARCHIVES PAGE (ALL SOLD)

GO TO AFRICAN METALWORK PAGE

GO TO AFRICAN METALWORKS EXHIBITION PAGE