In addition to the Uhanbọ, the Ekpede was also used by warriors in Benin and is likewise said to have been created by Ake, the deity of archery. Because the Ekpede could fire heavier arrows, it was an important weapon in warfare before the introduction of firearms by Portuguese traders. However, this interpretation has been disputed, with some scholars arguing that the crossbow was instead copied by the Edo from Portuguese examples. Furthermore, in depictions on the Emwin Arre (royal treasures), Edo warriors and hunters are shown using the Uhanbọ, while only Portuguese soldiers are depicted with the Ekpede .

Ikpotoki figures (Portuguese figures) are easily distinguished by their European-style clothing, including hats and helmets, as well as by their facial features, particularly their thin, straight noses and straight hair. The objects Ikpotoki figures are shown wearing or holding provide further indications of their relationship with the Benin Kingdom. When they hold or are positioned alongside Ugianran (manillas), for example, they indicate trade, commerce, and wealth, while weaponry such as firearms, swords, or spears indicates their role as mercenaries in the service of the Ọba. In 1515, Ọba Ẹsigie went to war against the Attah of Idah, the ruler of a neighbouring kingdom. Portuguese mercenaries and weapons assisted the Edo in winning the battle, enabling the further expansion of the Kingdom. Ẹsigie’s reign was particularly important for strengthening ties between the Benin Kingdom and the Portuguese Empire, and he is believed to have spoken fluent Portuguese. With Ẹsigie’s encouragement, Portuguese missionaries established churches in the Benin Kingdom ( ; ), while Portuguese trading factories were also established ( ). Ọba Ẹsigie allowed his son to be baptised and sent him to Portugal to be educated; following his return, he became Ọba Orhogbua ( ).

Ebe Amẹ refers to a wide variety of plants, particularly the leaves of the water fern or river leaf, found in riverine areas of southern Nigeria ( ). Artists from the Igun-Ẹrọnmwọn used these as a decorative motif in the background of most Ama-Ẹrọnmwọn (bronze relief plaques). The petals of the Ebe Amẹ, like the points of the ἀghàdàgháda (crossroads), represent the four cardinal directions: north, east, south, and west. The number four plays a foundational role in the Edo calendar, which is structured around four market days ( ).

Uhanbọ (bows) and Ifẹnmwẹ (arrows) were produced by members of the Iwifenmwen (guild of archers and manufacturers of poisoned arrows). Arrows, particularly poisoned arrows, were used in warfare. When depicted on Emwin Arhe (royal treasures), Uhanbọ and Ifẹnmwẹ are believed to represent Ake, the deity of archery. According to Aisien (in Plankensteiner 2007, cat. no. 218, p. 438), Ake was an expert marksman who lived during the reign of Ọba Ẹwuare (c. 1440–1473 AD) and is credited with inventing the poisoned arrow used in hunting and warfare.