The Portuguese man standing next to the Oba, clad in armor and carrying weapons, is most likely a soldier sent from Portugal as an aide or representative of the king to improve relations between Portugal and the Benin Kingdom. The Portuguese man, the attendants, and the Oba are all part of a very active and lively scene that has aspects of sound represented and interwoven throughout. The harp in the corner, the staff striking the ground, and the attendant whispering into the Oba’s ear. The entire piece gives the impression of a lively court full of sounds in addition to the
The Portuguese man standing next to the Oba, clad in armor and carrying weapons, is most likely a soldier sent from Portugal as an aide or representative of the king to improve relations between Portugal and the Benin Kingdom. The Portuguese man, the attendants, and the Oba are all part of a very active and lively scene that has aspects of sound represented and interwoven throughout. The harp in the corner, the staff striking the ground, and the attendant whispering into the Oba’s ear. The entire piece gives the impression of a lively court full of sounds in addition to the