Beninese Lost Wax Casting of Slave Procession

The kingdom of Benin, in the rain forest of what is now Nigeria, was renowned for its royal guild of brass casters. The tradition of telling stories in metal has continued.

This is a long bronze tableau, cast by the lost-wax method in the mid 20th century, over five feet from end to end. A column of men, women and children walks linked by a fine steel chain. A guard at each end wears a brimmed hat and carries a rifle. At the center, one captive lies fallen. It is a procession of enslaved people, set along a plain bronze base.

The subject is grave and the telling is detailed. Hang a light on it. It deserves a long look, and a quiet room.