Plaque: Portuguese with Manillas, 15th–19th century
Nigeria; Edo peoples, court of Benin
Brass, iron
Technical Glossary
Nigeria; Edo peoples, court of Benin
Brass, iron
H. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Klaus G. Perls, 1991 (1991.17.13)
This is an example of the series of cast brass plaques that historically hung on the wooden pillars of the Benin royal palace. This particular work reflects the association made by the Edo people between the Portuguese, depicted with sharp noses, long hair, and unique dress, and wealth, represented by the brass manillas (coins).
