‘Igbo-Ukwu Artifacts Older Than Benin Artifacts,’ Ogonna Nwokoye clarifies.

‘Igbo-Ukwu Artifacts Older Than Benin Artifacts,’ Ogonna Nwokoye clarifies.

‘Igbo-Ukwu Artifacts Older Than Benin Artifacts,’ Ogonna Nwokoye clarifies.

When comparing the Igbo-Ukwu and Benin archaeological findings based on their age, the key differences lie in their time of origin and the historical periods they represent.

Comparison Based on Age

Key Observations

1. Igbo-Ukwu’s Older Age:

The Igbo-Ukwu findings (9th–10th centuries CE) are several hundred years older than the Benin artifacts.

This makes Igbo-Ukwu one of the earliest known centers of metallurgy and artistic innovation in West Africa.

2. Benin’s Sustained Influence:

The Benin artifacts (12th–19th centuries CE) represent a later and more sustained cultural tradition, shaped by the kingdom’s centralized political structure and long-standing interaction with external powers.

3. Technological Implications:

Igbo-Ukwu’s earlier age demonstrates independent innovation in metallurgy, occurring long before significant European influence in West Africa.

Benin’s artifacts, while later, show how local art adapted and flourished under the influence of a sophisticated political system and external trade.

Conclusion

The Igbo-Ukwu artifacts are older, originating several centuries before the Benin findings. This makes them significant as an early example of artistic and technological achievement in Africa. However, the Benin findings represent a longer-lasting and politically integrated cultural tradition, with influences extending well into the colonial period. Both highlight distinct periods of West African history and cultural development.