This bronze Benin leopard is one of a pair made in about 1950 but characteristic of West African craftsmanship from earlier centuries. The leopard was once the emblem of power for the exclusive use of the Oba or king of Benin, representing triumph of people over the wild. It was a symbol of fear as well as a leader in the animal kingdom. Leopards are still very important among the Yoruba people of Nigeria today, being given as gifts to grant spiritual protection to the recipient.
© Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives
Accession reference: Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives, loan item
Themes
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Africa before Transatlantic Enslavement
The history of Africa and African people does not begin nor end with transatlantic slavery. Understand what Africa was like and what the continent lost as a result of the trade.
Background Reading
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The Lost Libraries Of Timbuktu
Until recently, many commentators on Africa claimed that African societies had no tradition of writing. With the rediscovery of ancient manuscript collections, some dating back to the 8th century AD, this perception is changing.
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Introduction To Various African Kingdoms