Filled with natural observation, plaques from Benin allow us to enter into a kingdom at its height over 400 years ago. In this example, we're introduced to a chief who is wielding a sword and wearing a leopard hip mask, as well as a leopard's tooth necklace. In Benin cosmology, the leopard is admired for its ability to match stealth with restraint and moderation. Such a mask is worn by a chief who served under the Oba (king).