More African Art

Waist Pendant

Benin Edo

Ht. 6 3/4

"

Nigeria

,

West Africa

Jay Last Collection, Beverly Hills

Waist Pendant with Oba and Two Attendants

The central figure on this pendant represents the

oba

, or king, of Benin flanked by important court officials. The scene symbolizes support for the

oba

, who in turn sustains the nation. The pendant was worn by the

oba

on a belt around his waist at state events.

• Beatrice Reise Collection, Brooklyn Museum, NY
• Culture: Edo
• Medium: Copper alloy
• Place Made: Benin, Edo State, Nigeria
• Dates: mid-16th-early 17th century
• Dimensions: 8 x 6 1/4 x 2 1/4 in (20.3 x 15.9 x 5.7 cm) (show scale)