The sculpture represents the Igue Festival, also known as the King’s Festival, which originates from the Benin Kingdom in Edo State, southern Nigeria. This festival, dating back to the 14th century during the reign of Oba Ewuare I, is a significant cultural and spiritual event. Celebrated between Christmas and New Year, it includes rituals where the Oba blesses the land and his people. The festival has evolved over time, incorporating other traditional festivals under Oba Akenzua II, making it a central event in the Benin cultural calendar. The sculpture likely depicts key elements of this festival, capturing its deep historical and cultural significance. It features multiple human figures, an animal (likely a goat or antelope), and objects. The figures are intricately arranged in layers, with the entire piece standing on a rectangular base.
Source: Osawaru, Favour. Igue Festival, wood, Private collection, Benin City.
High Poly Model Attached
Catalogue Number: CAT3B_062