Commemorative plaques

Definition

Commemorative plaques are artistic objects, often made from bronze or ivory, that serve to honor significant individuals, events, or milestones within a culture. These plaques are not just decorative; they are rich with historical and cultural significance, reflecting the values and achievements of the society that produced them, particularly in the context of the Benin Kingdom, where they play a crucial role in royal memorialization and storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Commemorative plaques were often used to depict significant historical events or important figures in the Benin Kingdom, such as rulers and military achievements.
2. These plaques typically feature intricate relief work, showcasing detailed representations that tell stories or convey cultural narratives.
3. The production of commemorative plaques reflects advanced metalworking techniques in Benin, especially bronze casting, which involved lost-wax methods.
4. Many plaques served not only as decorative pieces but also as historical records that documented the legacy of past leaders and significant events.
5. The British punitive expedition in 1897 led to the looting of numerous commemorative plaques from Benin City, resulting in their dispersion across museums and private collections worldwide.

Review Questions

• How do commemorative plaques in the Benin Kingdom reflect the culture's values and historical narratives?
  • Commemorative plaques in the Benin Kingdom reflect the culture's values by honoring significant figures and events that shaped their history. The detailed reliefs on these plaques tell stories of bravery, leadership, and lineage, showcasing the importance placed on ancestry and royal authority. This artistic expression serves not only as decoration but also as a way to educate future generations about their heritage and significant cultural milestones.
• Discuss the significance of bronze casting techniques in the creation of commemorative plaques and their impact on Benin art.
  • Bronze casting techniques were crucial for creating commemorative plaques, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of Benin artisans. The lost-wax method allowed for intricate designs and details that highlighted the significance of the depicted subjects. This mastery not only elevated the status of Benin art but also established a cultural identity that celebrated their history through these artifacts, reinforcing social hierarchy and royal power within the kingdom.
• Evaluate the effects of colonialism on the preservation and understanding of commemorative plaques from the Benin Kingdom.
  • Colonialism significantly impacted both the preservation and understanding of commemorative plaques from the Benin Kingdom. The British punitive expedition in 1897 resulted in widespread looting, with many plaques removed from their cultural context and scattered across various museums globally. This loss has created challenges in interpreting these artifacts accurately within their original cultural framework, leading to discussions about repatriation and restoring rightful ownership as part of acknowledging historical injustices faced by indigenous cultures.

Related terms

Benin Bronzes: A group of plaques and sculptures that were created by the Edo people of Nigeria, primarily made from brass and used to decorate the royal palace of Benin.

Royal Ancestral Worship: A religious practice in which ancestors are honored and venerated, reflecting the importance of lineage and heritage in societies like the Benin Kingdom.

Ivory Carving: The art of sculpting objects from ivory, which was highly prized in Benin for its beauty and rarity, often used to create intricate ceremonial items and decorative art.