Wood Carving of Benin Ivory Mask Low-poly 3D model

The original mask, representing Queen Idia, mother of Oba Esigie, was worn by Benin Obas during religious and memorial ceremonies. It features images of Portuguese heads, symbolizing Benin’s control over Europeans.

Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi, the last to wear the mask, was deposed by British forces in 1897. British officials, seeking Benin’s resources, plotted to annex the empire. In 1896, an attempted negotiation by Vice-Consul James Phillips led to an ambush and his death. In retaliation, British forces burned Benin City, exiling Oba Ovonramwen.

During the raid, the British looted artifacts, including four ivory masks. One mask is now in the British Museum and another in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Both masks are nearly identical and priceless.

Source: Osawaru, Favour. Benin Ivory mask, Ebony wood, Private collection, Benin city

High Poly Model attached