Nigerian Art

The statue in this picture is a bronze Benin statue. These statues have been around in my house ever since I was a baby. The Benin bronze statues date back to the 19th century and are a representation of the Kingdom of Benin, in Nigeria. The pieces are mostly made of brass and bronze but there are also some that are made from wood and ceramic. The sculptures would make the statues to resemble members of the royal family. This image of this statue represents my Nigerian culture. I identify collectively with being a Nigerian American. I was born in Lagos, Nigeria and lived in Benin where these types of statues were made and displayed in the Benin Palace. We moved to the states when I was still young so I am Americanized and have integrated some values and beliefs from both cultures.