Ahianmwen-oro (Bird of prophecy figure)

Subject Matter:

In Edo culture, a bird with outstretched wings, such as represented by this cast brass figure, was a symbol of prophecy and a connection between physical and spiritual worlds. It would often be found perched on the finial of an idiophone, or hand-held clapper, used in court ceremonies of the Kingdom of Benin.

This particular áhianmwọ́rọ̀ (ahianmwen-oro) might be associated with a larger group of objects collectively known as the “Benin Bronzes.” This misleading name refers to a number of brass—not bronze—objects made by a specialized guild of metalworkers in the Kingdom of Benin, located in what is now southern Nigeria. In 1897, the capital of this prosperous kingdom was sacked by the British during a “punitive expedition” that caused the demise of this important empire. Sculptures and plaques were torn from the palace walls and taken to Europe, where the looted treasures were sold to museums and private collectors. The royal court of Benin and other Nigerian officials have been demanding their return for decades. Because the Benin Bronzes are clear examples of works taken without the consent of their owners, in circumstances of extreme violence and coercion, they are at the heart of restitution debates about African art.

While this particular example was likely created post-1897, UMMA has submitted it for consideration to Digital Benin, an online platform that brings together data about objects and cultural heritage looted from Benin City in 1897.

Physical Description:

With spread wings, and pellet held in the beak.

Usage Rights:

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