Kingdom of Benin

A historical kingdom in southern Nigeria known for its bronzes, at its height it ranged from the Niger River delta in the east to Lagos in the west.

Dates

c. 900–1897

Places

Africa > West Africa > Nigeria

Basics Works of Art Artists Curated Guides

Kingdom of Benin

A historical kingdom in southern Nigeria known for its bronzes, at its height it ranged from the Niger River delta in the east to Lagos in the west.

Dates

c. 900–1897

Places

Africa > West Africa > Nigeria

Basics Works of Art Artists Curated Guides

Basics to get you started

Benin and the Portuguese

Benin art: patrons, artists, and current controversies

Art Appreciation: Power—comparisons and connections

Works of Art

The Benin “Bronzes”: a story of violence, theft, and artistry

16th–19th century

Benin Plaques

c. 1530–70

Benin ivory mask (Edo peoples)

16th century

Queen Mother Pendant Mask (Iyoba) (Edo peoples)

16th century

Benin plaque: Equestrian Oba and Attendants

1550–1680

Search and See All (5)

Artists

Equestrian Oba and Attendants, 1550–1680, Nigeria, Court of Benin, Edo peoples, brass, 49.5 x 41.9 x 11.4 cm (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Equestrian Oba and Attendants, 1550–1680, Nigeria, Court of Benin, Edo peoples, brass, 49.5 x 41.9 x 11.4 cm (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Igbesanmwan (ivory and wood carvers’ guild)

Igun Eronmwon (brass-caster’s guild)

Search and See All (2)

Curated Guides to Kingdom of Benin

All Textbook Chapters

Textbook Chapter

Portuguese contacts and exchanges, c. 1400–1800

Textbook Chapter

Art, Adornment, and Identity in Africa