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The city of Benin is located in a humid tropical forest in southern Nigeria. Although the city is now a small provincial town, it was once one of the most important commercial and artistic centers in western Africa. At its peak from the 15th to the 19th centuries, Benin was renowned for its wide avenues, prosperous citizens, and luxurious royal palace.
The palace was the home of a divine king known as the Oba. Believed to be the son of a god, the Oba possessed vast religious, political, and military powers. Although the people of Benin had no written language, they did leave a detailed record of their culture in bronze plaques commissioned by the Oba. Almost 900 of the plaques still exist. Taken together, they provide a detailed record of palace life in Benin.
This Internet lesson will enable you to learn more about Benin by studying one of the bronze plaques. The plaque shown above is believed to have been created between the 16th and 17th centuries. Although only two feet square, it provides a detailed portrayal of a warrior chief, two warriors, and four attendants.
The bronze plaque is a "clickable" masterpiece. That is, you can explore it by clicking on any part of the statue or on any of the buttons provided above. As you explore the various figures shown on the plaque, you will learn more about Benin culture. When you complete your examination of the plaque, click on the box labeled "The Lesson" and answer the questions.
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