Benin Bronze Bangle
The intricate artistry of lost-wax cast brass bangles and anklets can be found all over West Africa. This method of casting brass was prevalent by West African sculptors several hundred years prior to the arrival of the Portuguese in the late 1400s. The technique requires a great deal of skill, involving extensive knowledge of both pottery and metalworking. The process begins with beeswax or another material soft enough for carving fine details, after the wax has been carved, layers of clay are added to add strength. Once baked, the wax melts and the clay shell remains and then liquid metal is poured into the clay, which once set, is cracked open revealing the lovely green patina.
In the past these bangles and cuffs were used as a form of currency. The more elaborate the bracelet or the anklets, the more status the wearer had. They were often part of a new bride’s dowry.
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Dimensions: 3" x 3" x 8" H
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Color: Natural Patina
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Made of: Bronze / Steel
- Made in: Republic of Benin
- Sold with stand
Quality Commitment
Ngala Trading is proud to promote a curated selection of authentic designs featuring sustainable materials readily available from and across Africa.
Each Bespoke item pictured here is the exact item offered for sale. Each item is one-of-a-kind. Please contact us prior to ordering if you have any questions or concerns about these unique pieces.
Ngala Trading warrants its products for one year from date of sale against defects in materials and workmanship.
Shipping & Returns
We strive to deliver your purchase in the quickest and most economical way possible. Our team reviews every order individually, and determines the best shipping method taking into account destination, weight and size of items.
- Small packages ship via FedEx Ground from Hackensack, NJ
- Transit time for In Stock items is typically 3-5 days depending on Ship To address
- Large items ship palletized via motor freight from Hackensack, NJ
- Shipments are sent fully insured, and require an adult signature at the time of delivery
- White Glove Delivery is available for a surcharge. Please contact us for details
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ABOUT
Ngala Bespoke
Ngala Trading is proud to bring a new offering of one-of-a-kind, limited edition items to the North American marketplace through Ngala Bespoke. An extension of our brand that tells the story of beautiful, African, handmade design, Ngala Bespoke is curated by Creative Director, Lawson Ricketts during his visits to South Africa. Unlike the products in Ngala Trading’s catalogue that are either stocked or made-to-order, “Bespoke” products are one-of-a kind, and cannot be replicated.