The Image
"The Hidden Oba" (2021) image is an original photograph by Nathaniel Akinpelu Williams, and featuring model Aramatou Toure..
The photograph is part of a 2021 series of photographs that were inspired by the iconic pieces of 16th century African bronze art and ivory carvings made in the likeness of Iyoba Idia (Queen Mother), and the contemporary jewellery we have created to celebrate her and her legacy.
The prints are professionally printed on quality art papers for great detail and colour reproduction.
Large Print: 28x35.5cm / 11x14in. Printed (Giclée) on Enhanced Matte Art paper (EMA). Museum-quality paper with a matt finish (200gsm).
A4 Print: Printed on photographic paper. 21.0 x 29.7 cm / 8-1/4 x 11-3/4 in. Printed on Canon Semi Gloss Pro Ink paper (180gsm).
About Iyoba Idia
Iyoba Idia was of the Edo people. She was a warrior, protector, and a political & spiritual guide who fought for her son, Osegie, to claim the title of Oba of the Kingdom of Benin (c1504 to c1550). Her power and influence were such that she has been referred to as the ‘Hidden Oba’. She represents a timeless example of African leadership.
Iyoba Idia - warrior, politician, spiritual leader, adept politician, and protector of the Edo people. She was also known as the "The Hidden Oba" and remains a giant of true leadership.
The artworks from the Nigerian Kingdoms of Benin and Ife shattered the myth that African art was by any means primitive. They sent clear messages that African art was well capable of being just as sophisticated, or even more so, than European art of the same period.