African Ifé statue from Benin City in Nigeria, made of African bronze, representing a rooster of the royal court.
Benin art is described as a royal art because it is closely related to the king, known as Oba. The tradition of the Ife royal court bronze objects dates back to the 14th century. These rectangular altars were topped with heads, statues, carved ivory tusks, bells and staffs. These pieces were used to commemorate an Oba and to connect with his soul.