3.3” x 2.5, 4.5” x 3” (on stand)

Although the oldest examples of similar Benin metal work in bronze date from the twelfth century, according to tradition, the lost-wax casting technique was introduced to Benin by the son of the Oni, or sovereign of Iife. Their tradition holds that he taught the Benin metal workers the art of casting bronze using lost-wax techniques during the thirteenth century.

These great Benin artisans refined that technique until they were able to cast plaques only an eighth of-an-inch thick, surpassing the art as practiced by Renaissance “masters” in Europe.

All one of a kind with slight design and shape variations. Sold with stand.

Ethically sourced and made.