Waist Pendant Plaque

This small, U-shaped, brass pendant was designed to be suspended from the waist. It would probably have been worn by an Oba or by another title-holder during court ceremonies. The detailed scene on the pendant shows an Oba, or an important official, at the centre who is supported by two attendants. This is a frequently used image in Edo court arts, which emphasizes the Oba’s dominance and how royal authority is supported by the kingdom’s subjects. The museum purchased this pendant in October 1897 from A. Hewer, who was probably a dealer.