Emotan, a revered figure in Benin Kingdom, was once an ordinary trader. Her humble hut served as an informal creche for market-goers’ children and a sanctuary for Prince Ogun during his struggle for power around 1432 AD.
Emotan’s remarkable kindness played a pivotal role in helping Prince Ogun, who later became Oba Ewuare, ascend the throne as the 12th Oba of Benin in approximately 1440 AD. Following her passing, he decreed her burial in her hut, marked by an Uruhe tree, and her deification as the embodiment of justice. Today, her grave remains a revered site during celebratory processions in Benin.
In 1954, Oba Akenzua II, collaborating with British Colonial authorities, commissioned a life-sized bronze statue of Emotan, sculpted by Mr. John A. Danford in London. This statue stands as a lasting tribute to Emotan, preserving her legendary legacy for generations to come.
Source: Agbonmwenre, Alex. Emotan, Bronze-cast(lost-wax), Collection of the artist, Benin City.
PBR maps and Highpoly printable model included in file