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African Art Gallery
The images below represent the famous bronze (brass) casting art of Benin, a Kingdom in West Africa which flourished in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries A.D. The line drawings here are by Margee Bright-Ragland, assistant professor of Fine Arts on DeKalb College's Central Campus, Atlanta, Georgia. All rights to the drawings are reserved for Ms. Bright-Ragland.
Head of an Oba
The Oba is the ruler of Benin, is considered to be divine and serves as the link between the spiritual and the physical realms. The Oba was often symbolized by the mudfish, a creature which is able to leave the water and survive on land. The mudfish can also deliver an electric shock, making it an apt image of the Oba's power.
Bronze Plaque of the Mudfish
The mudfish was a symbol of the Oba's power. Here, European influence is suggested by the "treefoil" pattern in the background.
The Oba as Mudfish
Here, the Oba is depicted with the curled legs of the mudfish. According to legend, a crippled Oba who attempted to portray his condition as a sign of divinity was rejected by his people for his deception. This image, although clearly linking the Oba to the imagery of the mudfish, also reminded the Oba that even he was subject to the laws and wishes of those he governed.
The Portuguese atop a stack of manillas
The Portuguese, who arrived by ship, were easily associated with the mudfish, the god of the sea Okolun and, therefore, the power of the Oba. They brought great wealth, partially in the form of the manilla. Trade with the Portuguese was entirely controlled by the Oba, and here, the Portuguese beards are represented in the shape of the ceremonial swords used to honor the Oba in the annual festivals.
An Oba's bracelet
The presence of the Portuguese is also evident in this bracelet, which depicts Portuguese faces alternating with the mudfish. The wealth brought by the Portuguese was clearly associated with the power of the Oba.
A member of the Ewoki guild in Benin
The Portuguese brought firearms to Benin, and the Ewoki, or guild of gunsmiths, copied their western style of dress.