Curriculum Materials: Amazing Animals in Art Image 6 African, Nigeria (Benin) 17th-19th century Leopard Theme Essays: Background About this Object Style Technique About the Artist Questions: Suggested Questions: K-3 Suggested Questions: 4-6 African, Nigeria (Benin) Benin was a flourishing center for artistic activity where artists and craftpersons were organized into guilds of blacksmiths, brass and bronze casters, wood and ivory carvers, bead and costume makers, and leather workers. The oba, the most important patron of the arts in Benin, had a virtual monopoly on the work of many of the artists' guilds. These guilds were incorporated into the court organization, with workshops located in the palace. Membership in the guilds was hereditary, with skills passed on from generation to generation. Introduction ~ Index of Images ~ Glossary ~ Amazing Animals Activities ~ How to Order ~ Your Comments Wanted