Arhuanran – The Giant Warrior Prince of Benin Kingdom

Traditional wrestling, also known as “Laamb” in Wolof, is a centuries-old sport in Sénégal. In terms of form, it is very similar to the Greco-Roman style of wrestling; however, it is very typical of traditional, African wrestling. There are two forms of Laamb: the first allows the wrestlers to strike each other with their bare hands, which can be painful; the second is more acrobatic, and hitting is not permitted. When a wrestler’s back touches the ground, the bout is over; he has lost. Laamb is as much a spiritual activity as it is physical; and wrestlers engage in various rites and rituals preparatory to fighting. No wrestler, regardless of his strength, physical, or technical abilities, will ever dare to enter the ring, much less fight, without his “marabout” or without participating in his own pre-match ceremony. During the ceremony, the wrestler, accompanied by drummers and singers, dances around the arena; around his arms, legs, and waist are various kinds of esoteric pendants or amulets the purpose of which is to protect him against evil spirits and the witchcraft of other fighters. It is this aspect of the sport which elevates a wrestling match beyond the level of ordinary spectator sport. Many people attend as much for the enjoyment of the ceremony as for the sport.

Sato drummer music links us with our beginning, life, God. Therefore, it is sacred. It is an unmistakably sign of deep spiritual fall when music rendering becomes sensually inclined. Sato drums have the potency of driving away evil spirits, wherever they are beaten. The Sato drum is used and beaten in Akarakunmo during celebratory periods, particularly at burials of very old and renowned individuals. The drums are approximately three metres tall and beaten with seven long drumsticks. Those who play the drums must jump simultaneously at the rhythm of the drum, wear traditional attire and perform acrobatic displays. Those who play drums must be orphans. An orphan who has lost one parent can only use one hand to play the drum and an orphan who has lost both parents can use two hands. If both parents are still alive, you cannot play any of the drums. The drums are hollow and must be covered. The main dancers and drummers of the Sato drums in Nigeria are the children of Kodjo, Avidagba and Tosavi. These are the people who originate from the areas of Agbokomeh, Lokossa and Dadapame (now called Wheaga). Perfect for an outdoor piece.

Fabulous hand carved wooden African sculpture of Benin King and Queen weighing 10.5kg. Made in Benin Handmade