African Tribal Art - Benin Portuguese Figure

Ex-French African art collection.

This Benin-style bronze sculpture depicts an armed Portuguese soldier, carrying a dagger at his hip and dressed in his traditional military uniform. The arrival of the Portuguese in the 15th century in Benin, with their military arsenal, aroused keen interest among the local kings. The power of firearms was naturally associated with an arcane defense capability against invisible enemies. In the 16th century, Europeans played a leading role at the Oba's court, introducing products such as corals, glass beads and manillas, which were highly prized by the king and his court. At the same time, Portuguese soldiers participated in the military campaigns of Benin, notably against the kingdom of Idah. The considerable increase in metal imports, in the form of shackles used as currency, provided bronze artisans with enormous quantities of raw materials for their works, thus contributing greatly to Benin's economic growth.

Item accompanied by its certificate of authenticity.
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