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Africa

Royal sceptre
16th - 18th century
West Africa, Nigeria: Benin
Elephant ivory
h. 39.0 cm
UEA 231

This royal sceptre from Nigeria: Benin is an elaborately carved object depicting the Oba (king) as a mounted warrior. Made from elephant ivory, an image of a snake or reptile resides at the base. The Oba�s costume consists of a head-dress which appears to be of coral beads with a back neck covering. Formerly in the Pitt Rivers Museum in Dorset, this piece is now among the seven Benin objects included in the Collection.

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