The Benin Bronzes are a group of more than a thousand commemorative metal plaques that decorated the royal palace of the Benin Kingdom in modern-day Nigeria.
Collectively, the Bronzes form the best known examples of Benin art, created by the Edo people from the thirteenth century, which also included other sculptures in brass or bronze, including some famous portrait heads and smaller pieces.
In 1897, most of the plaques were removed by the British during a punitive expedition to the area as imperial control was being consolidated in Southern Nigeria.
Two hundred of the pieces were taken to the British Museum in London, while the rest were purchased by other European museums. Today, a large number are held by the British Museum. Other notable collections are in Germany and the United States.
The Benin Bronzes led to a greater appreciation in Europe of African culture and art. The metal pieces were made using lost-wax casting and are considered among the best sculptures made using this technique. Follow the conversation on Twitter #liveorijinal and like our facebook page www.facebook.com/orijinNigeria.
In this season of independence Orijin urges all Nigerians to Live Orijinal. • If it’s not Orijin, it’s not Orijinal.
Remember, drink responsibly.
Collectively, the Bronzes form the best known examples of Benin art, created by the Edo people from the thirteenth century, which also included other sculptures in brass or bronze, including some famous portrait heads and smaller pieces.
In 1897, most of the plaques were removed by the British during a punitive expedition to the area as imperial control was being consolidated in Southern Nigeria.
Two hundred of the pieces were taken to the British Museum in London, while the rest were purchased by other European museums. Today, a large number are held by the British Museum. Other notable collections are in Germany and the United States.
The Benin Bronzes led to a greater appreciation in Europe of African culture and art. The metal pieces were made using lost-wax casting and are considered among the best sculptures made using this technique. Follow the conversation on Twitter #liveorijinal and like our facebook page www.facebook.com/orijinNigeria.
In this season of independence Orijin urges all Nigerians to Live Orijinal. • If it’s not Orijin, it’s not Orijinal.
Remember, drink responsibly.
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