This is a bronze sculpture depicting a standing Portuguese soldier, crafted in the traditional lost-wax casting technique of the Benin Kingdom. The figure wears a tall, conical helmet with a brim—distinctive of 16th–17th century European military attire. His facial features are stylized with prominent almond-shaped eyes, a pointed beard, and a defined mustache.
The soldier is dressed in a buttoned tunic and a pleated skirt-like lower garment. He holds a spear upright in his right hand and a small, curved object—possibly a firearm or sword—in his left. The legs are firmly planted on a rectangular base adorned with chain-like motifs, and there’s a circular hole between the feet, likely for ritual mounting or attachment.
This figure reflects the cultural exchange between Benin and early Portuguese traders, symbolizing foreign alliance, military strength, and the prestige of the Oba’s court.
Source: Omorogbe, Aigbe. Portuguese Soldier Colon, Bronze-cast(lost-wax), Private collection, Benin city
HIGHPOLY MODEL INCLUDED IN ADDITIONAL FILES