Benin plaque
1. Describe the Benin Plaque.
2. What is the context for this piece?

Explanation:

1. Describe the Benin Plaque.

The plaque is a relief made in bronze, though in appearance it looks almost like leather. The color is dark brown and the background is wrinkled as if made of the textile material. The display on the plaque shows three figures standing side by side. The figure in the middle holds the weapon and looks forward, while the figures on the side look at the person in the middle. Flowers are engraved in the background.

2. What is the context for this piece?

The plaque is one of the many originating in the Benin City and the Oba palace. These plaques are an essential part of African and Nigerian art history. They are probably all made in the same series and depict scenes of life in the palace, which they probably decorated. The plaque dates from the 16th century after the Europeans had the first contact with African sprouts. From the picture that this plaque presents, we can conclude that it is a depiction of the king with his servants.

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