Plaque ifé de Bénin-City – African bronze – Nigeria – 1st half 20th century

African Ifé Plate from Benin City, Nigeria, in African bronze

This plate represents the exploits of the King, we can note 3 armed warriors.

Benin art is described as a royal court art because it is closely related to the king, known as the Oba. The tradition of the Ifé royal court bronze objects dates back to the 14th century. These altars, in a rectangular shape, were mounted with heads, statuettes, carved ivory tusks, bells and staffs. These pieces served to commemorate an Oba and to enter in contact with his soul.



Material African bronze

Period 1st half 20th century

Region/ country Nigeria

Condition Good

Dimensions 24×18×4.5 cm

Object Plaque ifé de Bénin-City

Ethnic group/ culture Ife

Weight 1.76 kg