Nigeria is home to diverse cultures, traditions and artistic people. The Benin Bronze casting is also one of the several endeavors that brings renown to the country. The country has remained one of the most culturally and artistically renowned nations in the world. This is despite the fact that the country is struggling with several issues. These include problems like insecurity, lack of basic necessities and more. Meanwhile, the artistic side of the country has still managed to retain a name for themselves in several parts of the world
Here are some facts about the practice of Benin bronze casting in Nigeria, which is famous across the globe. The art of Bronze is most common in the capital city of the Edo state, Benin city. Over the years, the world knows the city as the home of bronze casting in Nigeria. Sources suggest that Igun street has been home to some of the best known bronze casters in the world.
In the past, bronze casting were made solely for the Oba of Benin. Accordingly, the people believe that this is why little Igun street is located very close to the palace of the Oba of Benin. The art of bronze casting is somewhat exclusive to the Nigerian artisans. While the art itself has taken several forms, the Nigerian artform is eclusive to the Igun street.
Over the years, the artists have dis[played their art works of The Benin bronze works in many museums world over several years. Igun street continually enjoys visitations by tourists from within and without Nigeria all year round. A number of tourists also come to see the beautiful artifacts of Benin (Edo) craftsmen.
Here, it is worth noting that during the invasion done by the british, when the British invaded and destroyed the city in 1897 during the Benin expedition, they looted the bronze castings from Benin city. The bronze castings are some of the most valuable art peices from Nigeria.
