Franz Gassmann was like many other consignors of works of art from the Kingdom of Benin, probably active as a merchant in West Africa at the end of the 19th century. He sold only one object to the museum in 1911. Further details about this person could not be ascertained.
Ring in Marquisform
Unbekannte Werkstatt der Bronzegießergilde Igun Eronmwon / Königreich Benin, Nigeria,
19. Jh. (?) / Gelbguss, Achat / Ankauf von F. Gassmann, 1911, Inv. Nr. 11.107:1
Der Fingerring aus Messing hatte ursprünglich zehn in einer Kittmasse eingelassene Achatperlen. Laut Auskunft des Verkäufers soll er ursprünglich Oba Ovonramwen gehört haben.
Beleg ist hierfür keiner vorhanden. Europäische Besucher berichteten ab dem 17. Jh. von dem reichen, glänzenden Korallen und Gelbgussschmuck der Oberschicht in Benin. Die Finger der königlichen Frauen sollen mit Ringen überladen gewesen sein.
Label Text (eng)
Finger Ring in Marquis Shape
Unidentified workshop of the Bronze Casters Guild Igun Eronmwon / Benin Kingdom, Nigeria, 19th century (?) / Brass, agate / Acquired from F. Gassmann, 1911, Inv. no. 11.107:1
The brass finger ring was originally adorned with ten embedded agate beads. The seller claimed that it was formerly owned by Oba Ovonramwen. However, no evidence exists to substantiate this claim. European visitors from the 17th century onwards reported on the rich, splendid coral and brass jewelry of the upper classes in Benin. The fingers of royal women were reportedly overloaded with rings.