The Horniman houses a number of these extraordinary art pieces, and below we explore two examples currently on display in the Music Gallery. These objects not only reflect the creativity of a rich past but also continue to play a central role in the spiritual and cultural life of Benin today.
Following the transfer of ownership and repatriation efforts, consultations and collaborative projects with members of the Edo community – both in the UK and in Nigeria – were undertaken to recontextualise the remaining objects.
This led to the creation of the co-produced Benin display in the World Gallery, as well as the redisplay of the Ẹroro and Ukhurhẹ in in the ‘Death and Remembrance’ case in the Music Gallery.
Located in Edo State, Southern Nigeria, the Kingdom of Benin traces its roots back to the 10th Century. According to oral traditions, the first dynasty of Kings, known as the Ogiso, founded the royal court and established the beginnings of the palace craft guilds.
These guilds became the nucleus of the royal crafts, with highly skilled artisans producing world renowned works of ivory, metal and wood.
The unique artistic traditions of Benin, imbued with spiritual power and enduring cultural significance, continue as a testament of its legacy.
Ukhurhẹ
Ukhurhẹ (ancestral staffs) are made following the passing of a family member. The staffs of high-status individuals such as the Oba (King) are made of brass or ivory.
Crafted in the likeness of the ukhurhẹ-oho (a bamboo like plant) each segment symbolises a single life span, serving as a visual representation of ancestry and continuity.
Staffs are sounded like rattles when stamped on the ground, and are lined up against the back wall of Aru Erha (ancestral altars) often side by side. This conveys a continued connection between individuals with both their ancestors and descendants.
The intricately cast Ẹroro (bronze bells) hold deep spiritual significance among the Edo people. Varying in shape and iconography the bells are usually decorated with a variety of motifs, often associated with the power and prestige of the Oba.
Arranged to hear the prayers of their descendants and take part in the traditional ceremonies.
Beyond their role in summoning ancestral power, the bells also served as symbols of rank. They were worn by warriors on the battlefield to invoke strength and divine protection.
These items were among the thousands of pieces looted by British soldiers during a violent attack on Benin Kingdom in February 1897. The Horniman purchased 72 of these objects before 1899. For decades, Nigeria called for them to be returned, and in November 2022, the Horniman transferred ownership to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments. Some have been repatriated (physically returned) to Nigeria, whilst others remain here on loan to continue with research and consultation.
Lead image: Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution