Igun Street – the World Heritage site of bronze artworks; is a street in the heart of Benin City, Nigeria. Igun Street has been referred to as one of the most beautiful streets in the world and is known for its bronze statues and sculptures.
The sculptors who work here are able to produce pieces that are both beautiful and functional. In addition, the craftsmanship involved in making the statues is a testament to the skill of these artists, who have been at it for generations.
The street is lined with bronze statues and other artwork depicting scenes from the city’s history including traditional architecture and religious ceremonies
The artisans use bronze as their medium because it is durable and malleable, allowing them to create both artistic and practical sculptures. They make a variety of heads, including heads of animals and humans, but they specialize in creating masks that cover the faces of their subjects.
What are Benin Bronzes?
The Benin bronzes are a collection of bronze sculptures from the ancient kingdom of Benin. The pieces were created as early as the 14th century, and they represent a wide variety of figures including deities, animals, and humans. This collection is often referred to as “The Lost Bronzes”.
The Benin people of Nigeria who were highly skilled metalworkers made the bronzes. The pieces are believed to have been used as talismans or amulets that protected the wearer from bad luck and illness.
They are considered as one of the most important artistic works of African Art and represents a rich fusion of culture between Africa and Western Europe.
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It was used for centuries as an essential part of early civilization around the world. Especially for religious statues and other items, that would not be able to withstand the rigours of being transported over long distances without damage or loss.
History of Benin Bronze Civilization in Nigeria
Nigeria was one of the several countries in West Africa where this metalworking method was developed and practised. Most notably, it was used by people at the Olokun site on the island of Benin.
The practice of bronze casting was already well-established before the arrival of Europeans at the continent. The Yoruba people were followed by other African tribes including the Ijebu, who began making bronze bells in the 14th century AD.
Benin bronze casting is a traditional art form used for over 3000 years. It is one of the oldest metalworking techniques in the world, and is still practiced today.
The art of bronze casting can be traced back to ancient Africa, where it was used to create decorative objects such as masks and statues. In addition to being used to create everyday objects such as knives and spearheads; bronze casting can also be used for artistic purposes like creating sculptures or buildings.
However, no specific timeline is available in history about the origin of Benin casting. Every school of thought holds a different view on the origins of Benin art.
Some believe it was introduced to the world from Europe or outside Africa. Another school of thought holds that Benin art originated in the Yoruba Kingdom of Oyo. Oba Oguola founded it under the leadership of Igun Eronmwon.
Benin Bronze Casting Technique
The Benin bronze casting technique is a traditional method used for metal casting. The objects were made using a lost-wax process, which involved pouring molten metal into sand or clay moulds.
This mould is then filled with molten metal, such as bronze and are allowed to cool. The final product is a piece of art, that has been created using this process. For example, the Benin bronze casting technique involved pouring molten metal into a mould shaped like an animal or human being, which was then covered in clay and set on fire. The clay would burn away, leaving only the metal structure of the object behind.
Cultural and Religious Significance of Benin Bronzes
The artworks have been attributed to the Yoruba people of West Africa, who lived on the Niger River Delta. The sculptures are believed to represent nearly every aspect of Yoruba culture including religion, trade, and politics.
The bronzes have been claimed as having been stolen by Europeans at different times throughout the history. However, recent research has revealed that they were originally created for religious purposes.
The bronzes were used as worship and sacrifice icons, allowing them to be passed down through generations. During festivals, these sculptures were used to honour ancestors, the dead, and the living.
The Benin Bronzes are significant because they show us how advanced ancient civilizations were, when it came to Art and Sculpture. They also show how much influence these cultures had on other societies, worldwide.
Benin Bronzes and Modern World
Benin bronze casting has become increasingly popular due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. These bronzes were very popular in Europe during the Middle Ages and were used to decorate and make weapons, as well.
The intricate designs created by master artisans are iconic works of art, that have been immortalized in museums worldwide. In addition, the technique allowed them to cast objects like weapons, bells, and ceremonial masks.
They are also highly decorative, as they have either geometric or abstract patterns. This makes them very unique and eye-catching. These bronzes were used for religious purposes but became more common as decorations for homes, offices, and even vehicles.
Benin bronze casting is still prevalent in Nigeria, although it has become more refined. It is now used to create statues of important people in the community. These statues are typically commissioned by Kings or Heads of State to honour their accomplishments or successes.
Because Benin has been so influential in African history and culture, many people travel there to see how this art form is practiced today; and some even attempt to teach themselves this traditional art form.