Translated with Google Translate. Original text show .
The Kingdom of Benin, in the south of present-day Nigeria, is renowned for its magnificent bronzes and ivory carvings.
These works constitute one of humanity's greatest treasures and are among the centerpieces of museums around the world.
The Oba's palace, where the sumptuous royal shrines were located, was considered the centre of the capital and the kingdom.
The art of Benin is undoubtedly a royal art.
Its supervision was carried out by one of the three ruling orders, Iwebo (the other two being Iweguae and Ibiwe).
This order was responsible for the king's finery and personal effects.
Affiliated to this order were numerous artisan brotherhoods. They worked primarily for the king and could only carry out commissions for other clients with royal permission.
Bronze smelters, ivory carvers, weavers, tailors and leather craftsmen are some of the brotherhoods led by the Iwebo.
Triad representations show the Oba surrounded by two men who support his arms and hands; this emphasizes the fact that the king could not govern or fulfill his functions alone.
This traditional configuration reflects the typical way the king and dignitaries were positioned during ceremonies.