TWO IVORY ARMLETS OF THE OBA OF BENIN. The example on the left, likely from the 17th or 18th century, features a repeating motif of heads identifiable as Portuguese traders, distinguished by their beards and distinct facial feature The Kingdom of Benin, especially under Oba Esigie (early 16th century), had direct contact with the Portuguese. These relations brought trade in ivory, coral, brass, and over time, however, these commercial ties expanded beyond luxury goods and tragically opened the d