Ẹkpo
Ẹkpo (bags) were typically made from skins or woven from raffia. The leather bags were made by the Isekpokin, whereas bags made from raffia were made by the Owina.
Typically, Ẹkpo are rectangular with a strap, and some have a flap over the front. The majority was collected by Northcote Whitridge Thomas during his first tour of West Africa, when he travelled in Edo-speaking areas from 1909 to 1910. The notes about each offer a rare glimpse into the everyday objects used by ordinary men and women in Benin Kingdom.
Ẹkpo were also used by the royal court, and rectangular leopard skin or stamped leather specimens can be seen depicted on relief plaques, either on their own or being held by members of the royal court such as royal messengers.
Educational Material
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