Accession book entry: : 'MISS MARY H. KINGSLEY. The following specimens chiefly collected by the late Miss Kingsley in W. Africa, were bequeathed by her to her brother Charles G. Kingsley, to be transferred to the Museum at his death. Mr. Kingsley generously surrendered his life interest in the specimens and presented them at once to the Museum, September 1900: The following bronzes from Benin city, taken during the punitive expeditionunder Admiral Rawson, February, 1897.... [One of two] brass and copper relief masquettes, crocodiles' heads, ....[eyes inlaid] with lead.; Card Catalogue entry: : No further information on the catalogue index cards. [CW 14 7 1997]; Written on object: : BENIN CITY. Bequeathed by Miss. M.H. KINGSLEY, 1900 [L.Ph 'DCF 2004-2006 What's Upstairs?' 19/1/2005]
Research Notes: The crocodile is associated with Olokun, god of the waters. It is regarded as the 'policeman of the waters' and is feared for its ferocity and tenacity. It may also be seen as an extension of the power of the Oba, since both the Oba and the crocodile have the right to take human life. Masks like this were symbols of leadership in Benin. They were worn by the Oba and the Edo chiefs and also sent to the Oba's vassal leaders as emblems of their authority. While the Oba and the Edo chiefs wore these masks attached to their belts, often on the left hip, vassal leaders wore them around their necks. [LM]