This object has been returned to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), following the transfer of ownership in November 2022.
A bronze plaque, known as an Ama. Benin City. Ama are visual representations of important events in the Kingdom’s history. They ensure that these events are remembered across the generations. Plaques like this covered the walls of the Royal Palace.
The plaque is depicting Oba Orhogbua holding a staff, representing authority and power. On this plaque, Oba Orhogbua is wearing a heavily embroidered brocade wrapper with a frill, overlaid by a waist band sash with tassels. Iwu (royal tattoo) adorn his body. Iwu are a mark of Benin citizenship. Before 1929, a Benin man without body markings was not qualified to become a chief. Water leaf olokun motifs form the background of the plaque. At the corners are crocodile heads. Crocodiles are servants of Olokun, hermaphrodite god of the seas and wealth, and child of Osanobua, who guards the waters. Made by Igun Eronmwon guildmembers (bronze and brass casters).
