The African Kingdom of Benin was one of the oldest and most highly developed kingdoms in coastal West Africa (modern day southwest Nigeria) dating back to the 9th century BC. By the 1300s, Benin was a wealthy and powerful kingdom that created artwork which dazzled the world.

Benin masks represented the Queen Mother and were worn by Benin kings during ceremonies & battle. They were designed to rid the kingdom of bad spiritual forces. Two vertical bars of inlaid iron between the eyes allude to medicine-filled incisions that were a source of their metaphysical power. This ancient Benin art inspired an art renaissance in West Africa. Cast brass masks were made honoring Queen Mothers and were fitted with carved ivory tusks and displayed on royal altars.

This magnificent 2-inch Benin mask necklace is solid brass and is encased in either faux onyx or 18k gold plate. It comes with a gorgeous 26-inch Franco chain.

The Benin Warrior Mask Necklace is a wonderful tribute to our African culture, in honor of our ancestors and one of our great African civilizations. Get yours TODAY and wear it proudly!