TBC_Royal Triad

The Royal Triad is a motif composed of three figures, with a central figure supported on either side by two others. The motif has multiple meanings and interpretations. When understood on the human level, the central seated or standing figure is identified as the Ọba, flanked by two Enobare who each support one of his arms. This pose “encapsulates Edo ideals of kingship,” in which “even the most powerful of Benin's divinely ordained rulers cannot stand alone. He must maintain a careful balance between his authority over the Edo people and their acquiescence in his leadership” ( ). The identities of the supporting Enobare are interpreted variously. They have been identified as the Osa and Osuan, who support the Ọba in this manner during the Ugie Oro and Ododua festivals, although it is possible that the Edaiken (crown prince) and Ezọmọ performed these roles during the 18th century ( ).

In some examples, the central figure has mudfish in place of legs. These figures have sometimes been interpreted as representations of the deity Olokun ( ). Barbara Blackmun (1984, pp. 274–275) alternatively suggested that the triad may represent the high god Osanobua, his son and deity Olokun, and Olokun’s child, Ohen, who in turn represents the Ọba.

The number three is considered an “uncanny” number in Edo thought and “is never used lightly” ( ), being associated with the “threat of occult sanctions or forces” ( ).

The Royal Triad appears on almost all Aken'ni Elao (carved tusks), as well as on some Ẹgogo (gongs) and pendant plaques, and less frequently on Ama-Ẹrọnmwọn (bronze relief plaques). The motif is also referred to as the “supporting triad motif” or “linked supporting triad motif” ( ).