Scroll down for everything you need to know about this piece: dimensions, sustainability and more
Everything you need to know
A bronze sitting Benin Leopard from our Alkebulan, Ancient Africa collection. This piece has been handcrafted in Java, Indonesia. It has been cast with much eye for detail.
Inspiration
The Benin people of Nigeria believe that the Benin leopard is a symbol of Justice as well as a powerful beast that has royal qualities. The leopard is thought to reign over the Savannah as a king does over his subjects. We find this symbolism truly brilliant.
About the collection
We looked to Alkebulan as our inspiration for this collection. Alkebulan translates to Ancient Africa. In Alkebulan, many craftsmen translated the surroundings, people and animals they worshipped into gorgeous design objects. It was customary to depict famous figures in bronze figurines. One of them was the ONI Queen, an important figure for the Yoruba people. Another example is the Benin Leopard, seen as a majestic and powerful creature.
Dimensions
Height: 23 cm
Length: 29 cm
Weight: 1.5 kg
Sustainability
Our bronze sculptures are made from upcycled metals such as old pipelines. Our craftsmen and women collect this scrap waste which they then put them in an oven at very high temperatures. Once the scrap waste pieces melt, the new raw material is ready to be used. We then use this virgin material to make our bronze sculptures. As bronze is a very eco and labour intensive material to mine, we feel it makes much more sense to reuse the material that has already been created than to extract it – again.
Who made it
Lastly, when it comes to our working conditions, we work exclusively with Indonesian craftsmen and women on both Bali and Java. This piece specifically was made in Java, Indonesia. All of our craftsmen and women get paid a living wage that exceeds what the Indonesian Law requires. Their income is enough for a comfortable home, food, education, ceremonies, and more.
Questions?
Finally, do you still have any questions about the bronze sitting Benin Leopard? Feel free to reach out to us via Whatsapp + 31 6 17123402 or email info@sooka.com and we will get back to you shortly.
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