Ivory Female Figure from Benin in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2008

Benin Ivory Figure
Female Figure
Nigeria, Kingdom of Benin
Edo peoples
18th century
Ivory, metal

Accession # 1978.412.302

Ivory is associated with the majesty of the elephant and the wealth derived from trade in elephant tusks. Consquently, it was used only for objects made for the king and others in positions of power. Benin ivory sculptures were carved by members of a hereditary guild who transmitted time-honored motifs and patterns from one generation to the next. This figure represents a female attendant to the queen mother. The queen mother cared for young women who served in this capacity at her court until they reached marriageable age. At that time, her son, the oba, could marry them or give them to important chiefs to cement political alliances.

Text from the Metropolitan Museum of Art label.