Anwa and Akpoka (tongs) were used by members of the Igun-Ematon and Igun-Eronmwon (Dark, 1973 ,p.48, 55

). Today they are still used by members of the Igun-Ematon to handle hot objects, such as crucibles, during the casting process.

Miniaturised versions of tongs were made by the Igun-Ematon for use as charms on shrines to Ogun (Dark, 1973, p.55

). Tongs thus have both practical and ritual uses in Benin Kingdom.

Anwa/Akpoka

Tong

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The British Museum’s archives are held in various locations across the institution. The items listed here aim to give an overview of the main locations where relevant archival and photographic material relating to objects from the Kingdom of Benin is housed. Key areas relevant for cultural objects from the Kingdom of Benin are: Corporate Archives; Department of Africa, Oceania and the Americas archives; Department of Britain, Europe and Prehistory archives; and the Anthropology Library and Research Centre.

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Department of Africa, Oceania and the Americas 

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British Museum

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British Museum link

Nevins, Hugh Nevins

Colonial administrator

Collector

Wikidata Link

More info

Wellcome Institute for the History of Medicine, London

Museum

Donor

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