This plaque comes from the former part of the Congo, from the Benin kingdom. It was obtained in the 20s of the last century. What the object was used for is unclear, probably as an altarpiece at ceremonies and/or offerings, or as an elaborate lid for a large jar. This object was made with the lost wax technique. In the photos you can still see the remains of the red clay mould.
Experts disagree, on one hand the object could be older than the early 20th century, others indicate that it is from the early 20th century and a replica of older famous bronze objects. However, the depiction is not typically a representation for replicas. On the plaque are captured warriors, they are tied together., You can see a sword and dots and clover leaf motifs that served as cosmological signs. The bronze was not completely poured into the mould, therefore part of the edge is missing.
