The Benin Red Book #2

Oriiz Presents The Red Book to DG

Overview

Heralded as the definitive opus on the Benin Kingdom, The Benin Monarchy: An Anthology of Benin History is a monumental work supervised by the eminent historian Professor Obaro Ikime, who also penned the Preface. The volume was edited by Oriiz U. Onuwaje with contributions from 26 scholars, anthropologists, and essayists.

Spanning over 500 pages across 18 chapters and 4 sub-chapters, the book traces the monarchy’s lineage from Oba Oranmiyan to Oba Ewuare II, weaving together tradition, history, and modernity. From the Warrior Kings of the Golden Age (1440–1897) to the resilience of Oba Eweka II and Oba Akenzua II, the narrative culminates in the reign of Oba Ewuare II, whose coronation rites blend ancient customs with modern realities.

Highlights

  • Created and edited by Oriiz U. Onuwaje
  • Comprises 18 chapters and 4 sub-chapters covering monarchy, culture, society, economy, religion, and art.
  • Includes pivotal chapters on the Warrior Kings and Frontier Conquest (1440–1897), Oba Ovonramwen and the 1897 invasion, and the modernising reigns of Oba Eweka II and Oba Akenzua II.
  • Features a chapter dedicated to Benin Royal Art — bronze plaques, commemorative heads, ivory works, and the mastery of lost-wax casting.
  • Celebrates the role of women through a chapter on Queen Mothers and Heroines, documenting traditions such as Okuku hairstyles and the Usukporhu.
  • Richly illustrated with photographs from the Oba’s collection, global museums, and private archives.
  • Substantial in scale: 300mm x 360mm, approximately 6.8kg.

Cultural Significance

The anthology challenges colonial narratives by re-examining Oba Ovonramwen N’Ogbaisi and the 1897 invasion, while celebrating Benin’s sophistication — from its advanced lost-wax casting guilds to the role of women in sustaining the monarchy. It is not merely a chronicle, but a living bridge between past and present, designed to stimulate deeper research into Benin’s history and identity.

Press Recognition

  • Newsweek: “One-of-a-kind Red Book chronicles the Benin Empire in proper perspective… a delight for the general-knowledge seeker and a vital resource for researchers.”
  • ThisDay Live: “A priceless compendium for the Benin Kingdom… a great book about a great people, a great kingdom.”
  • TheWill News: “A monumental book setting earlier historical accounts straight, retelling the history of the Benin people beyond the shores of Africa.”
  • MahoganyBooks: “A stunning and illuminating one-of-a-kind anthology of one of the world’s most ancient royal dynasties as told by its own people.”

Curator’s Note

“The Benin Red Book was conceived as a bridge — between the palace and the people, between history and identity. It affirms that our stories, when curated with care, can stand alongside the world’s great chronicles.” — Oriiz U. Onuwaje