Leopard (No reserve price)

Leopard Royal - Bini Edo - Benin - Benin aluminum
The Kingdom of Benin, to the south of present-day Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent bronzes and ivory sculptures. These works constitute one of humanity's greatest treasures and are among the master pieces of museums around the world.

The Oba's palace, where the sumptuous royal sanctuaries were located, was considered the center of the capital and the kingdom.

Benin's art is undeniably royal art. Its supervision was handled by one of the three powers, the Iwebo (the other two being Iweguae and Ibiwe). This order was responsible for the king's regalia and personal effects.

Many artisan guilds were affiliated with this order. They worked mainly for the king and could only undertake commissions for other clients with royal authorization. Bronze founders, ivory sculptors, weavers, tailors, and leather artisans are some of the guilds led by the Iwebo.

The bronze leopards were intended to decorate the altars and usually came in pairs. Since they were used during libations and purification sacrifices, they were often given the form of an aquamanile.

In the past, leopards were part of the palace’s domestic animals. They were easily tamed and could even be kept on a leash. On very grand festive occasions, the Oba sacrificed a leopard—a custom that was observed until the early 20th century, during the Igue festival.