Mid 19th Century African Benin Bronze Leopard, Nigeria. Bronze leopard on a wood platform base. The sculpture created using the lost wax casting method, also known as cire-perdue. Contemporary base added later. Measures: Sculpture: 15 L x 4 D x 13 H in. Weight: Approx. 10 pounds. The Benin Bronzes hold immense historical and cultural significance. They serve as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Edo people and their advanced metalworking techniques. These sculptures not only adorned the royal palace but also depicted important figures, events, and deities of the Kingdom of Benin. The Benin Bronzes are a symbol of the kingdom's power, wealth, and artistic excellence