THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF BENIN METALWORKING FROM PREHISTORY TO THE EMPIRE STATUS

This paper re-examines the origins and evolution of metalworking technology in the Benin Kingdom, challenging colonial-era narratives that attributed bronze casting to external diffusion from Ife or Portuguese introduction. Through critical analysis of archaeological evidence, metallurgical studies, and oral traditions, the study demonstrates that Benin metalworking emerged from indigenous technological innovation rooted in the pre-dynastic Edionwere system and the subsequent Ogiso dynasty (c. 355 BC–1092 AD). The research systematically deconstructs the prevalent Oguola-Igueghae tradition, which credits the introduction of bronze casting to the reign of Oba Oguola through Ife intermediaries, by presenting scientific evidence including carbon-14 dating, alloy analysis, and linguistic studies that confirm local origins predating European contact by centuries. The paper further examines the institutionalization of the Igun Eromwon guild under Ogiso Ere as a deliberate political strategy to consolidate monarchical power through economic centralization, illustrating the inextricable relationship between technological development and state formation. The analysis traces the industry's flourishing during the reigns of Oba Ewuare and Oba Esigie, demonstrating how royal patronage, economic prosperity, and administrative sophistication enabled the transition from small-scale production to world-class artistic achievement. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches from archaeology, art history, and political economy, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to decolonize African historiography, reclaiming indigenous technological agency and repositioning Benin metalworking within its proper context as an autonomous African innovation that selectively incorporated external influences while maintaining distinct local characteristics.