Benin Bronze Sculpture of a Leopard, Mid-20th Century
Modern mid-20th century copy of a Benin (modern-day Nigeria) bronze figural sculpture of a leopard.
The Kingdom of Benin, located in the south of current Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent bronzes and ivory figurines. These masterpieces are among the greatest treasures of humanity and are exhibited among the artworks of museums worldwide.
The palace of the Oba, where sumptuous sanctuaries were located, was considered as the centre of the capital and of the kingdom. Art of Benin is undeniably a royal art. It was led by one of the three orders in power, the Iwebo (the two others were the Iweguae and the Ibiwe). This order was in charge of the King’s finery and personal effects.
Many confraternities of craftsmen were affiliated to this order. They mainly worked for the king and could not craft commissions of other clients without his permission. Bronze casters, ivory sculptors, weavers, tailors and craftsmen who worked leather were some of the confraternities ruled by the Iwebo.
Bronze leopards were destined to decorate altars and usually came by pair. Since they were used for libations and sacrifices, or purification, they often had the shape of an aquamanile.
Artist: Unknown
Period: Mid-20th Century
Dimensions: H45 x W35 x D11cm
Condition: Good vintage condition
Modern mid-20th century copy of a Benin (modern-day Nigeria) bronze figural sculpture of a leopard.
The Kingdom of Benin, located in the south of current Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent bronzes and ivory figurines. These masterpieces are among the greatest treasures of humanity and are exhibited among the artworks of museums worldwide.
The palace of the Oba, where sumptuous sanctuaries were located, was considered as the centre of the capital and of the kingdom. Art of Benin is undeniably a royal art. It was led by one of the three orders in power, the Iwebo (the two others were the Iweguae and the Ibiwe). This order was in charge of the King’s finery and personal effects.
Many confraternities of craftsmen were affiliated to this order. They mainly worked for the king and could not craft commissions of other clients without his permission. Bronze casters, ivory sculptors, weavers, tailors and craftsmen who worked leather were some of the confraternities ruled by the Iwebo.
Bronze leopards were destined to decorate altars and usually came by pair. Since they were used for libations and sacrifices, or purification, they often had the shape of an aquamanile.
Artist: Unknown
Period: Mid-20th Century
Dimensions: H45 x W35 x D11cm
Condition: Good vintage condition
Modern mid-20th century copy of a Benin (modern-day Nigeria) bronze figural sculpture of a leopard.
The Kingdom of Benin, located in the south of current Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent bronzes and ivory figurines. These masterpieces are among the greatest treasures of humanity and are exhibited among the artworks of museums worldwide.
The palace of the Oba, where sumptuous sanctuaries were located, was considered as the centre of the capital and of the kingdom. Art of Benin is undeniably a royal art. It was led by one of the three orders in power, the Iwebo (the two others were the Iweguae and the Ibiwe). This order was in charge of the King’s finery and personal effects.
Many confraternities of craftsmen were affiliated to this order. They mainly worked for the king and could not craft commissions of other clients without his permission. Bronze casters, ivory sculptors, weavers, tailors and craftsmen who worked leather were some of the confraternities ruled by the Iwebo.
Bronze leopards were destined to decorate altars and usually came by pair. Since they were used for libations and sacrifices, or purification, they often had the shape of an aquamanile.
Artist: Unknown
Period: Mid-20th Century
Dimensions: H45 x W35 x D11cm
Condition: Good vintage condition
Unless otherwise stated, all our products are sourced, vintage items of varying ages. Please review all images carefully for signs of wear and tear. Condition report available upon request. Please enquire for an in-person viewing - by appointment only.
