Gallery ILE is delighted to present its Cabinet of Curiosities, inspired by the attire often found in the Vestiaire of Kings and Monarchs at the Royal Court of Dahomey's ancient Kingdom.

Amongst these truly rare finds, a one of a kind "Makpo" or Recade, the royal sceptre specific to the Kings of Dahomey who wore them on the left shoulder. Casted in bronze, it features intricately  carved feathers and is adorned with a mythological Kalao bird's head believed to symbolise the arrival of peace. 

A wooden hair comb, arm bands, paper weights and refined jewellery pieces masterfully carved in Ebony wood, red agate, organic clay and bones. 

There's even a stellar 60 years old ancestral 'Adjito' board game hand carved in Guibourtia Copallife that eerily resembles a baby crocodile. 

We Hope you'll enjoy this highly curated selection of interstellar artefacts and rare collectibles, masterfully crafted by the best master-artisans currently working in Benin. 

Image Credits: Phyllis Galembo