The intricacies of Benin bead motifs – their place in contemporary Nigerian art

Abstract

Beads have been part of the traditional dress essence of the Africans and other popular cultures of the world. Benin art is phenomena and generally accepted worldwide partly as a result of their resounding uniqueness, peculiarity and exceptional finishing of delicate forms especially those bordering on beads. These beads are used for the making of the Oba’s diadem, dresses and shoes. Some of his flywhisks are made of beads too. In contemporary time, and even in ancient period, the Oba beaded crown continue to evolve to the extent that the style of crown worn then is different from those in vogue today. The Queen Mother’s beaded crown has also gone through some significant changes and processes. Today, what we have is a profoundly gracious and courtly beaded crown. What are the other outstanding importance and weighty functions of the bead to the Benin man and woman and by extension to other popular cultures and traditions of the world? This is what this paper has unearthed, critically appraised and established.