Related Images

Clapper, possibly 1800s. Creator: Unknown

Clapper, possibly 1800s. This clapper was played by striking the beak of the bird with a metal rod. It is used in a ritual called ugie oro, which commemorates an early 16th-century military victory of King Esigie. This festival illustrates the divine power of the Benin king to protect the kingdom and its inhabitants against natural and supernatural forces. The bird has been identified as a vulture, ibis, hornbill, eagle, or kingfisher.

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Stamp Card produced by Ottmar Zeihar - Dahomey

Stamp Card produced by Ottmar Zeihar - Dahomey. These cards enabled collectors to see stamps which they were unable to obtain, or afford. There is a complete set of 180 cards, some of the smaller countries had a very low printing run and are hence very rare. Used Zeiher cards are very hard to find as the embossed stamp design was not approved by postal authorities as it confused the function of the 'proper' stamps! Date: circa 1904

© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection

Kana Fetishes in Dahomey, from 'Le Petit Journal', 26th November 1892 (colour

XIR246060 Kana Fetishes in Dahomey, from 'Le Petit Journal', 26th November 1892 (colour litho) by Meaulle, Fortune Louis (1844-1901) & Meyer, Henri (1844-99); Private Collection; (add.info.: Les Fetiches de Kana, le dieu de la guerre; African god of war;); French, out of copyright

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