A RARE AFRICAN CHIEF'S PARASOL FROM ABOMEY, DAHOMEY, BENIN PROBABLY 19TH CENTURY
The parasol with applique ...

A RARE AFRICAN CHIEF'S PARASOL FROM ABOMEY, DAHOMEY, BENIN PROBABLY 19TH CENTURY
The parasol with applique figures of birds, lions, trees and rifles, possibly from the Royal court of Dahomey.
Ancient tradition dictates that when seen in public, Benin Royalty were to be carried with parasols held over their heads to denote their importance and power. This is a tradition that still continues in modern day Benin.
According to French photographer Eric Lafforgue,
'Only the kings can have an umbrella. The umbrella is always turned clockwise, to symbolise the longevity of the king. The kings all have an umbrella that allows the people to see them from far away when they are going out of their palace. A man or a woman always hold it, even when they are sitting under a roof.
'On the umbrella, you can spot symbols that represent the power of the king such as sceptres, lions and leopards'
Measuring 76cm in diameter. Mounted in a glass display case.
For modern day reference:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3233970/Exotic-life-kings-Benin-land-subjects-believe-roya ls-superpowers-invisible-night.html