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1 of 253523 objects
Figure of a hornblower 2002-03
Brass, wood | 44.4 x 30.5 x 15.5 cm (whole object) | RCIN 95621
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A brass model of a hornblower in Nigerian dress on a shaped wooden base.
Hornblowers formed part of the retinue of the oba (king) of Benin and acted as heralds announcing his presence. They typically used side-blown horns made of ivory. In the late sixteenth century, brass sculptures of hornblowers were placed on the altars in the royal court at Benin to honour an oba's ancestors. This figure is based on a bronze model first cast in Benin City in c.1600.Provenance
Presented to Queen Elizabeth II by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Nigeria, 3-6 December 2003.
With an accompanying plaque: 'In the African context, the horn blower is a communicator who is important in creating awareness and disseminating useful information. The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), as the horn blower, is of even more profound significance. She sounds a warning of an impending eco-crisis staring Nigeria in the face, if no firm action is taken, to reverse the present trend of environmental degradation.' -
Medium and techniques
Brass, wood
Measurements
44.4 x 30.5 x 15.5 cm (whole object)
Category
Object type(s)
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