Page 81 - Works of Art from Benin-Nigeria- West Africa

68 Antique Works of Art from Benin.

DESCRIPTION OF PLATE XXXIV.

258 to 260. Round execution block, with marks on the top for the thumbs and
Figs.
forehead of the victim ; elaborately ornamented all over. On the projection
on which the forehead is intended to rest is a double row of cowrie shells,
bound round. A band of guilloche pattern, incised, runs round the circle,
and the for the thumbs of the victim are ornamented with
projections
On the sides of the block are three human in
herring-bone pattern. figures
relief holding hands ; shields, a leaf-shaped sword, and a trident points
down. The shields are ornamented with straight line diaper pattern, and a
band of the same runs round the top of the edge of the block. Two human
arms and hands are on the side, and two boxes or stools are between the
human The bottom of the sides is ornamented with a band of
figures.
guilloche pattern in relief. The figures are clothed with jackets and skirts.
The whole is much worn, as if by constant use.
261. on convex side. Ornamented with bands of
Fig. Ivory horn, mouth-piece
broken
guilloche pattern.
262 and 263. Bronze A a so-called in hand.
Figs. plaque. figure holding key right
Coral choker, badge of rank. Head-dress, probably of agate or coral. No
cross on dress.
264. Bronze a in both hands a
Fig. plaque, representing figure standing holding
sword of the kind shown in No. 130. The sword
leaf-shaped is narrower,
and the swell of the blade nearer the than in the of
point majority specimens.
A round bell is attached to the left side. The hair to be dishevelled
appears
and Three tribal marks over
partly plaited. eyes.