Benin Bronzes and Benin-Style Castings: What Collectors Should Know

Few African artworks are as famous as the Benin Bronzes. Their name also gets used loosely, so buyers often wonder what they are really looking at. Here is a plain guide to the history, the returns now under way, and how to buy Benin-style pieces with your eyes open.

The historic Benin Bronzes

The Benin Bronzes were made for the royal court of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now southern Nigeria. Guilds of Edo casters made them for the Oba (king) using the lost-wax method. Most are in fact brass. They include commemorative heads, figures, and relief plaques that once decorated the palace.

In 1897, a British military expedition took thousands of these objects from the royal palace. They were sold and scattered to museums and private collections around the world.

The returns to Nigeria

In recent years, museums have begun returning looted pieces. In July 2022, Germany and Nigeria signed an agreement that Nigeria says covers 1,130 objects, and other museums in Europe and the US have made returns of their own. Pieces taken in 1897 are not something a responsible seller offers for sale.

What "Benin-style" means

Bronze casting never stopped in Benin City. Casters there still work in the lost-wax tradition, and many castings were made during the 20th century in the court style: plaques with the Oba and attendants, warrior figures, queen mother heads. These are what you will usually find on the market. At Belle Afrik Arts we describe them as "Benin-style" so the difference is clear.

How to buy a Benin-style piece

1. Read the description for age claims. "Vintage" and "20th century" are honest. "Ancient" or "pre-colonial" needs strong proof.
2. Check the weight and size. Good castings are heavy for their size; the listing should give both.
3. Look closely at the surface. Crisp detail and an even, worn patina suggest careful casting. A thick, chalky green coating can be applied to make a piece look older.
4. Ask for more photos of the back, where casting seams and the inside show.

Our bronze, brass and copper collection includes Benin-style plaques, figures and heads, each with weights, measurements and close-up photos, and free US shipping.

Source: theGrio / AP, "Germany, Nigeria sign accord for return of Benin Bronzes" (July 2022)