The Brief
- This is a bold wearable expression of African culture and heritage.
- The profile design featured is an iconic piece of 16th century African art.
- It is the likeness is of Iyoba Idia – an African Woman, leader, warrior, and inspiration.
- This oversize pendent makes a real statement - as does the wearer.
- This pendant brings Edo & Nigerian heritage into the public view.
- Ethically created
The Detail
This profile pendent is cast in hall-marked sterling silver. It celebrates the phenomenal Iyoba Idia who hailed from the Kingdom of Benin during the 16th century (now in modern day Nigeria). The pendent is unisex, and comes with a 22 inch sterling silver chain. The mask measures 3.1cm (w) and 7.7cm (h), and weight 45 grams.
The Story
This pendent is a modern interpretation of the image of Iyoba Idia – Queen Mother of the 16th century Kingdom of Benin. The original bronze casting is one of the renowned Benin artworks. Many similar pieces were seized in a punitive raid by the British (some of which can be found at the British Museum).
The Benin Bronzes shattered the myths that African art was by any means primitive. It sent a clear message that African art was well capable of being just as sophisticated, or even more so, than European art.
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. For more information see:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iJat3eyWag
http://rainqueensofafrica.com/2012/11/iyoba-idia-the-hidden-oba-of-benin/
http://www.cultureindevelopment.nl/News/Heritage_Africa/683/Queen_Idia_Mask's_sale_sets_Sotheby's_against_art_world
