ClassificationsAfrican Art

Armlet Depicting a Leopard

Place CreatedBenin City, Nigeria, Africa

CultureEdo

Date19th Century or later

MediumIvory, metal

Credit LineGift of Stan and Jamie Cohen in honor of Thornton Dial

Dimensions5 1/2 x 2 1/8 x 3/4 in. (14 x 5.4 x 1.9 cm)

Object number2011.044.002

Label TextThe kingdom of Benin, located in the modern state of Nigeria, is notable for its rich repertoire of ceremonial and ritual objects that support the institution of divine rulership. They are typically crafted from precious materials such as brass and ivory and feature imagery unique to the Benin institution of kingship.

Animal imagery in particular served to support the power of the king, here the image of the leopard, a top predator whose capture was controlled by the court. Festooned with eye-catching, light reflecting spots of brass, this stealthy leopard was likely worn on the king's arm or suspended from a belt. Benin kings wore elaborate costumes of red collar beads, against which the rich ivory ornaments stood out, further amplifying their power imagery.
Exhibition HistoryMCCM Permanent Collection Installation, March 29, 2013 - December 1, 2014

ProvenanceEx coll. Stan and Jamie Cohen, United States, purchased from Charles Jones African Art, Wilmington, North Carolina, 2004.

Status

Not on view

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