Osemwende

Osemwende
Oba of Benin
A bronze head of a king (Oba) in the style of Oba Osemwende, Metropolitan Museum of Art
Oba of Benin
Reign	1816–1848
Predecessor	Ogbebo
Successor	Adolo
Born	Eredia-uwa c. 1780 Benin City, Kingdom of Benin
Died	1848 Benin City, Kingdom of Benin
Burial	Royal Cemetery, Benin City
Father	Obanosa

Osemwende (c. 1780–1848), originally known as Prince Eredia-uwa, was the thirty-third Oba of Benin who reigned from c. 1816 AD – c. 1848 AD. He was the son of Oba Obanosa and the brother of Ogbebo, whom he defeated in a civil war to claim the throne. He restored peace and stability to the kingdom after a turbulent period of succession crisis and expanded and consolidated his empire through military conquests and diplomatic alliances. He also promoted trade and commerce with foreign nations, especially the Portuguese, and fostered art and learning among his people. He was revered as a wise and benevolent ruler who brought good tidings to his kingdom.

Background

The Kingdom of Benin was a pre-colonial African state located in what is now known as the Southern region of Nigeria. Founded by the Edo people, the kingdom operated under a monarchy system, with the Oba of Benin serving as the supreme ruler. The Oba held significant political and spiritual authority over the populace, also serving as the custodian of the Edo culture and heritage. During this time, a variety of art forms, including bronze, ivory, wood, coral, brass, clay, leather, and cloth, were commissioned to showcase the talents of Benin artists.

The zenith of the Kingdom of Benin's power and influence came during Oba Ewuare the Great's reign (1440–1473). He expanded the kingdom's territories through military campaigns, reformed its administration and military, and established diplomatic relations with neighbouring kingdoms, including Oyo, Ife, Nupe, and Jukun. Additionally, he initiated the tradition of sending the Chalk of Good Tidings to vassal potentates throughout the Benin Empire, symbolising the commencement of his rule.

The Kingdom of Benin retained its influence under subsequent Obas, including Ozolua (1480–1504), Esigie (1504–1550), Orhogbua (1550–1578), Ehengbuda (1578–1606), Ohuan (1606–1641), Ewuakpe (1700–1712), Akengbuda (1750–1804), and Obanosa (1804–1816). However, it also grappled with challenges and crises, such as succession disputes, civil conflicts, rebellions, invasions, epidemics, and famines. One noteworthy succession crisis unfolded in 1816 following the death of Oba Obanosa, who had not designated a successor. This absence of clear succession plans triggered a power struggle between his two sons, Ogbebo and Eredia-uwa, both of whom laid claim to the throne.

Early life

Oba Osemwende, born circa 1780 as Prince Eredia-uwa, was the son of Oba Obanosa and his wife. He had a younger brother named Ogbebo. While some accounts ascribe personality traits to their names, with Eredia-uwa described as gentle, kind, generous, and peace-loving, and Ogbebo characterised as violent, cruel, greedy, and warlike, these descriptions remain speculative.

Growing up within the royal palace in Benin City, Prince Eredia-uwa received education encompassing various fields of knowledge and skills. His studies included the history and culture of his people, customs and traditions associated with his future role, as well as proficiency in reading and writing in the Edo language, with some familiarity in Portuguese due to the Kingdom of Benin's diplomatic and trade interactions. Additionally, he acquired martial skills, including horse riding, archery, swordsmanship, and military leadership, as the Oba was expected to possess martial prowess.

Prince Eredia-uwa's upbringing also exposed him to the rich artistic and religious dimensions of his kingdom. He admired the diverse artworks adorning the palace and the city, such as bronze sculptures, plaques, masks, and statues depicting Obas, ancestors, chiefs, warriors, gods, and more. Furthermore, he actively participated in various rituals and ceremonies honouring the Oba, ancestors, deities, and spirits. He held deep respect for the priests and diviners who served as intermediaries between the mortal and divine realms. Additionally, he engaged in the festivals and celebrations marking significant seasons and events in his kingdom.

Prince Eredia-uwa enjoyed widespread love and respect from his family, friends, subjects, and allies, as he was seen as a promising candidate for future kingship in Benin. However, he faced rivalry from his younger brother, Prince Ogbebo, who also harboured aspirations to ascend to the throne.

Reign

Civil war

Oba Osemwende's reign commenced with a civil conflict that emerged following the demise of his father, Oba Obanosa, in 1816. Oba Obanosa did not designate a successor prior to his passing, resulting in a contested and vacant throne. His two sons, Prince Ogbebo and Prince Eredia-uwa, both asserted their right to the throne based on different claims of seniority. Prince Ogbebo contended that his seniority was based on birth order, asserting himself as the eldest son of Oba Obanosa. In contrast, Prince Eredia-uwa asserted his seniority through primogeniture, claiming the right of succession as the firstborn child.

The dispute between Prince Ogbebo and Prince Eredia-uwa escalated into a violent conflict, involving not only the two brothers but also their supporters from within the Benin Kingdom. Prince Ogbebo garnered support from his mother and certain influential chiefs, who favoured him for his military capabilities and ambitions. Meanwhile, Prince Eredia-uwa received backing from other influential chiefs who esteemed his wisdom and benevolence. He also secured support from vassal rulers beyond the Benin Kingdom who had received the Chalk of Good Tidings from him upon his return from exile in Ewohimi.

The civil conflict persisted for approximately eight months, during which Prince Ogbebo managed to seize power and proclaimed himself as Oba Ogbebo. However, his rule proved brief and unstable, as he encountered resistance and opposition from Prince Eredia-uwa and his allies. The battle occurred at Uzebu, where Prince Eredia-uwa's forces triumphed over those of Oba Ogbebo. Subsequently, Oba Ogbebo was captured and met his demise under the command of Prince Eredia-uwa's general, Ezomo Erebo.

Coronation

Following his victory in the civil conflict, Prince Eredia-uwa assumed the throne of Benin in 1816, adopting the regal title of Oba Osemwende, signifying "the king who brings good tidings." His coronation marked the restoration of peace and stability following a turbulent succession crisis.

Oba Osemwende adhered to tradition by dispatching the Chalk of Good Tidings to vassal potentates throughout the Benin Empire. This chalk served as an official proclamation of his reign, symbolising the commencement of his rule. Additionally, it acknowledged the loyalty and assistance of vassal rulers who had supported him in his conflict against Oba Ogbebo. Typically, the chalk was accompanied by offerings of cowries, coral beads, brass rods, and other valuable items.

The coronation of Oba Osemwende was celebrated among his subjects as a divine blessing bestowed by God (Osanobua) and their ancestors (Ebo). He was esteemed as a wise and benevolent ruler, recognised for ushering good tidings, comfort, and joy into his kingdom. His bravery and military prowess were also acknowledged, as he defended his realm against adversaries and insurrections. He received various honorific titles, including Oba n'Edo (the king of Benin), Oba n'Okun (the king of the sea), Oba n'Osa (the king of the sky), Oba n'Ogbe (the king of the earth), among others.

Expansion and consolidation

Oba Osemwende's reign witnessed the expansion and consolidation of his empire through military conquests and diplomatic engagements. He pursued a policy aimed at subduing neighbouring kingdoms and territories that posed challenges to his authority, while simultaneously nurturing relations with friendly and allied kingdoms that recognised his sovereignty.

Among Oba Osemwende's notable conquests was that of Udo, a town in Esanland that had remained loyal to Oba Ogbebo. The people of Udo asserted their right to choose their ruler independently and contested Oba Osemwende's authority, labelling him a usurper and oppressor.

In response, Oba Osemwende dispatched a substantial army, commanded by his trusted general and adviser, Ezomo Erebo, to quell Udo's resistance and reintegrate it into his dominion. The ensuing battle was intense, resulting in the capture of Udo. The town was subsequently sacked, and many inhabitants either lost their lives or were enslaved. Arakale, the leader of the rebellion, met a similar fate, facing execution alongside his supporters.

This victory over Udo solidified Oba Osemwende's authority, serving as a deterrent to potential rebels who might challenge his rule. He further consolidated his control over Esanland and other regions of his empire by appointing loyal chiefs and administrators to oversee them. Simultaneously, he bolstered diplomatic and military relations with friendly kingdoms such as Oyo, Ife, Nupe, and Jukun.

Another significant conquest was that of Akure, a Yoruba town that had maintained a hostile stance towards Benin for an extended period. Akure's people claimed descent from Oranmiyan, Benin's founder, and asserted their superior claim to the throne. They also harboured grievances against Benin's dominance and interference.

In response, Oba Osemwende initiated a military campaign to subdue Akure and bring it under his rule. He entrusted Iyase Erebo, another trusted general and adviser, with leading the army. The conflict was fierce, resulting in Benin's victory, the conquest of Akure, and the town's subsequent plunder, destruction, and loss of life. Deji Aládémọ̀mí, Akure's leader, was captured and executed. This happened in 1818 AD.

Oba Osemwende's conquest of Akure not only enhanced his standing among the Yoruba people but also solidified his authority over Akure and other previously defiant Yoruba towns. He appointed loyal chiefs and administrators to govern them, fostering cooperation. Additionally, he maintained diplomatic ties with other Yoruba kingdoms, including Oyo, Ife, Ijebu, and Egba.

The expansion of Oba Osemwende's empire extended beyond these conquests, encompassing regions such as Ekiti, Igbomina, Kwara, Kogi, and Edo North. He fortified Benin's borders against external threats, including the Fulani, the Kingdom of Dahomey and Britain, constructing forts, walls, moats, roads, bridges, and facilitating trade routes, markets, and ports to enhance commerce and communication across his domains.

Trade and commerce

Oba Osemwende's reign witnessed a focus on trade and commerce with foreign nations, notably the Portuguese. He established diplomatic and economic ties, facilitating exchanges of various goods, including ivory, pepper, cloth, metalware, firearms, and enslaved individuals, for European commodities such as coral beads, brass rods, cowries, textiles, wine, tobacco, mirrors, and more.

Oba Osemwende recognised the significance of trade with the Portuguese for his kingdom, viewing it as a source of wealth, power, and cultural exchange. Trade was also a means of establishing diplomatic relations with other nations, including Spain, France and Britain, who displayed interest in Benin's products and markets.

To facilitate this trade, Oba Osemwende acquainted himself with some Portuguese words and phrases, and incorporated Portuguese interpreters and advisers into his court.

Oba Osemwende's relationship with the Portuguese was not without challenges, including negotiations, rivalries, and occasional tensions. He vigilantly safeguarded his kingdom's interests and sovereignty, ensuring that it was not unduly influenced or dependent on foreign powers. Despite engaging in trade and diplomacy, he upheld his traditional beliefs and practices, preserving the dignity and prestige of his realm.

Art and learning

Portrait of Osemwende, courtly workshop around 1810 AD; at Rietberg Museum

Oba Osemwende's reign witnessed significant developments in the realms of art and learning among his people. He commissioned a diverse array of artistic works crafted from materials including bronze, ivory, wood, coral, brass, clay, leather, and cloth. These creations, produced by Benin artists, showcased their remarkable skills and creativity. Concurrently, Oba Osemwende encouraged the growth of literature, poetry, music, and dance, enabling the expression of Benin's rich history and culture.

Oba Osemwende held a deep appreciation for art and functioned as a prominent patron. He admired the artistic treasures adorning his palace and city and also collected works of art from other countries such as Portugal, Spain, France and Britain. These acquisitions resulted from trade or diplomatic exchanges and were occasionally displayed in public spaces, including temples, shrines, and markets, for the enrichment and edification of his people.

In addition to his patronage of the arts, Oba Osemwende supported the pursuit of knowledge and skills among his children and subjects. His commitment extended to acquiring new knowledge and information from foreign sources, encompassing books, maps, charts, letters, and other materials acquired through trade or diplomatic channels. Oba Osemwende further facilitated the travels of scholars and explorers to distant lands, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Arabia, India, and China, fostering cross-cultural learning experiences.

Death

Oba Osemwende passed away in 1848, concluding his 32-year rule. His successor, his son Adolor, ascended to the throne as Oba Adolo, reigning from 1848 to 1888. Oba Osemwende received a burial in accordance with the customary rites and rituals of his office, interred in the Royal Cemetery in Benin City. His final resting place was adorned with various works of art, either commissioned or collected during his reign.

Oba Osemwende's death was commemorated by his people, who regarded it as the loss of a significant monarch who had played a pivotal role in their kingdom. His passing found mention in both indigenous and foreign sources, encompassing oral traditions and written accounts. Chroniclers, historians, travellers, traders, missionaries, diplomats, explorers, and others who had interactions with or wrote about his kingdom documented his life and reign.

Legacy

Oba Osemwende's legacy continues to influence the culture and heritage of his people. He is widely recognised as one of the most significant rulers of his era, with his achievements still lauded and studied by historians, scholars, artists, and enthusiasts. His reign played a pivotal role in the history of the Benin Kingdom.

Oba Osemwende restored peace and stability to the Benin Kingdom following a turbulent period of succession crisis. He expanded and consolidated his empire through military conquests and diplomatic alliances, establishing his authority over a vast and diverse territory that extended from the Niger River to the Atlantic Ocean, and from the Yoruba lands to the Igbo lands.

He promoted trade and commerce with foreign nations, most notably the Portuguese. This trade involved the exchange of various goods, including ivory, pepper, cloth, metalware, firearms, and slaves for European commodities such as coral beads, brass rods, cowries, textiles, wine, tobacco, and mirrors. Additionally, he facilitated cultural exchange by learning some Portuguese words and phrases, employing Portuguese interpreters and advisers in his court, and receiving Portuguese visitors and emissaries who documented their experiences and observations of Benin. He also sent Benin ambassadors and traders to Portugal and other European countries, fostering diplomatic relations.

Oba Osemwende's reign saw advancements in the realms of art and learning. He commissioned a wide array of artistic works in bronze, ivory, wood, coral, brass, clay, leather, and cloth, showcasing the remarkable skill and creativity of Benin artists. His patronage extended to literature, poetry, music, and dance, which served as expressions of Benin's rich history and culture. Furthermore, he supported the education and training of his children and subjects across various fields of knowledge and skills. His quest for knowledge extended to foreign sources, including books, maps, charts, and letters obtained through trade or diplomacy. He even sponsored scholars and explorers who embarked on journeys to other lands, such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Arabia, India, and China, to gain insights from diverse civilisations and cultures.

The legacy of Oba Osemwende is most prominently embodied in the realm of art and culture. His contributions continue to be admired and appreciated worldwide, with some of his works displayed in renowned museums such as the British Museum in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the RISD Museum in Providence. Moreover, his artistic influence resonates with modern artists, including figures like Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, and Jacob Epstein, who have drawn inspiration from his creations.

The documentation of Oba Osemwende's life and reign is preserved in numerous oral and written sources, both indigenous and foreign. His memory lives on through the oral traditions of the Benin people, the royal chronicles of the Benin palace, Portuguese accounts from figures like Duarte Pacheco Pereira, João de Barros, and Rui de Pina, Dutch accounts by Pieter de Marees and Olfert Dapper, English accounts by Richard Hakluyt and John Ogilby, and French accounts by Jean Barbot and Antoine Brue. These diverse sources collectively contribute to a comprehensive understanding of his historical significance.

References

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Further reading

• Bradbury, R. E. (1959). "Chronological Problems in the Study of Benin History". Journal of the Historical Society of Nigeria. 1 (4). Historical Society of Nigeria: 263–287. ISSN 0018-2540. JSTOR 41970638. Retrieved 5 October 2023.
• Dumett, Raymond (1971). "The Rubber Trade of the Gold Coast and Asante in the Nineteenth Century: African Innovation and Market Responsiveness". The Journal of African History. 12 (1). Cambridge University Press: 79–101. doi:10.1017/S0021853700000086. ISSN 0021-8537. JSTOR 180568. S2CID 161675217. Retrieved 9 October 2023.