According to African tradition the office of the king is under the protection of God and the ancestors. This legitimises the respect and obedience, which the king may expect from his subjects and the rights and principles which he duly possesses. Royal art belongs to this sphere as well, with its artistically designed and decorated palatial door posts, royal stools, tobacco pipes, etc.

Relief plaque of an equestrian king and followers
Benin, Nigeria 17th century, acquired from W. D. Webster, 1898