描述
Queen-mother Idia, 16th century.
Inspired by Benin ivory mask representing Idia, the court of Benin, 16th century (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York).
Idia was the mother of Esigie, the Oba of Benin who ruled from 1504 to 1550. She played a significant role in the rise and reign of her son, is described as a great warrior who fought relentlessly before and during her son's reign as the oba (king) of the Edo people. Queen Idia was instrumental in securing the title of oba for Esigie following the death of his father Oba Ozolua. To that end, she raised an army to fight off his brother Arhuaran, who was subsequently defeated in battle. Esigie thus became the 17th Oba of Benin.