Contextual Analysis of Some Benin Blacksmithing Works
Abstract
The signification of iron lamps, gongs and staffs in the socio-cultural, religious and political lives of the traditional Benin society cannot be overemphasized. These items are products of the blacksmithing artistic practice. These products were common items of everyday use in all spheres of the Community; and they engender both physical and spiritual signification in the communities where they play major roles. The Benin blacksmiths were not left out as they were actively engaged in this artistic iron technology. The configural, contextual and formal elements seem to underscore the peculiarity and importance of these products to the people and the dexterity of the craftsmen (blacksmiths) in these communities. Nevertheless, the contextual elements embedded in these items seem to have been neglected in contemporary Nigerian art historical narratives. This paper takes an analytical look at the underline formal configuration and context of the blacksmiths lamps, gongs and staffs produced by the Benin traditional blacksmiths. It employed the formalistic and iconographic art historical methods in analyzing these art works. This analysis has been able to establish a better understanding and appreciation of these unique artworks in the socio-cultural development of traditional Benin society.
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