A pair of ivory leopards from the Kingdom of Benin (Edo), Nigeria, 19th century.

A pair of ivory leopards from the Kingdom of Benin (Edo), Nigeria, 19th century. 

“A pair of carved, stylized, ivory leopards, with spots of inlaid copper, each animal comprising five separable parts: head, shoulder and front legs, torso, hind quarters and tail. Each part made from a separate tusk. The copper for the spots was likely re-used from the percussion caps of contemporary rifles.

Leopards were considered 'kings of the forest' and were an important symbol of regal power in Benin. Obas (the rulers of Benin) kept a number in captivity as well as maintaining specialist guilds of leopard hunters at court. Brass or ivory models of leopards adorned the palace in Benin City, and kings were frequently depicted holding a pair of leopards by their tails as an emblem of supremacy.”

-Royal Collection Trust