At the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, visitors are presented with a myriad of historical treasures to explore. Among the 9 captivating history troves available, the Royal Navy museum holds a remarkable artifact from ancient times – an Ivory tusk obtained from the #BeninKingdom of Nigeria.
The Ivory tusk showing cultural carvings on it
Origins and Early Development
The Bini Kingdom was founded by the Edo people, who originally lived under the rule of the Ogiso dynasty. Ruled by monarchs known as Oba, who held centralized authority, supported by a council of chiefs and guilds, including the Igbesanmwan ivory carvers and bronze casters.
The capital city, Benin flourished as a center of civilisation becoming a hub of trade, diplomacy, and artistry which engaged with Portuguese traders from the 15th century onward. This cultural richness attracted the interest of the British who paid friendly visits to the Oba.
Colonial Encounter and Decline
However, in a pivotal turn of events, the British expressed interest in the kingdom, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Despite the Oba’s initial reluctance during the Igue festival, tensions escalated, culminating in the Benin Expedition of 1897. The kingdom faced invasion, resulting in its transformation into a British colony and the exile of the Oba.
Zeinab Bedawi, a Sudanese-British journalist mentioned that story in her book here: https://amarannaji.com/fragments-of-truth-the-risk-of-incomplete-narratives/
Modern Legacy
Today, the Oba of Benin still holds a ceremonial role in Nigeria. The kingdom’s history is central to discussions on colonialism, restitution, and African heritage, especially during events like Black History Month and museum exhibitions.
Moreover, the Ivory tusk stands as a poignant symbol of this historical narrative, preserving the legacy of a bygone era. As we commemorate #blackhistorymonthUK, I encourage all to visit museums this month. For Whites and other nationals, it offers an opportunity to delve into the histories of other nations. For Black individuals, it serves as a profound connection to their heritage.
Exploring museums not only enhances our understanding of the world but also nurtures empathy and cultural awareness, fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared history.
Further readings: https://www.worldhistory.org/Kingdom_of_Benin/
#blackhistorymonth #colonialhistory
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