Handcrafted figure of Oba in neo-Ife/Benin style

In 1897, the British overthrew the Oba dynasty of the Kingdom of Benin in a so-called “punitive expedition” and looted their highly refined bronze artifacts.
When the Oba dynasty returned to power in 1914, they revitalized traditional sculpture. With the permission of the ruler, production was undertaken, no longer intended only for the palace. This led to the introduction of new forms and motifs for the Western market, changing the original stylistic features, as in the case of this statue.