*English below* Superbe léopard provenant du Nigeria. En bronze, magnifique patine, finement ciselé. Un exemple finement réalisé provenant d'une ancienne collection du Sud de la France (Nice). Envoi soigné et rapide. The Kingdom of Benin, founded by Edo-speaking peoples around 1300, was a powerful African state with a rich cultural heritage and significant political and commercial influence, particularly during the reign of Oba Ewuare in the 15th century. The kingdom was known for its sophisticated brass artworks and strategic trade relations, especially with Portuguese traders. However, internal strife and the pressures of European colonialism, including the British invasion in 1897, led to the kingdom's downfall and the exile of its ruler, Oba Ovonramwen. Many of Benin's priceless artifacts were looted and dispersed across Western museums, but efforts in the 20th century, including the transfer of some works to Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments and their acquisition by institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, have helped to preserve and honor Benin's artistic legacy. Today, the current Oba, Ewuare II, champions the creation of a new museum to celebrate and reflect on Benin's enduring cultural significance. A fine example that belonged to a French collection (in the South of France). Fast and secure packing and shipping. African art, Afrikanische kunst, art Africain