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Proclamation of the new King of Dahomey, 1894. Artist: Oswaldo Tofani
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Proclamation of the new King of Dahomey, 1894. Artist: Oswaldo Tofani
Proclamation of the new King of Dahomey, 1894. Between 1892 and 1894 the previously independent kingdom of Dahomey was conquered by French troops from Senegal and incorporated into Frances West African colonies. In 1894 King Behanzin was deposed and the French relaced him with Agoli-agbo, a distant relative. An illustration from Le Petit Journal, 19th February 1894
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Media ID 14879479
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Benin Conquest Dahomey Invader Invaders Invasion Oswaldo Oswaldo Tofani Parasol Puppet Puppets Tofani Tricolour Military Personnel Print Collector4 Standard
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This print captures the historic moment of the Proclamation of the new King of Dahomey in 1894. Painted by Oswaldo Tofani, this artwork depicts a significant turning point in the history of Dahomey, an independent kingdom that fell under French colonial rule. Between 1892 and 1894, French troops from Senegal invaded Dahomey and incorporated it into France's West African colonies. In this image, we witness the aftermath as King Behanzin is deposed and replaced by Agoli-agbo, a distant relative chosen by the French authorities. The scene is filled with symbolism and emotion. A large crowd gathers to witness this pivotal event, waving flags adorned with both French tricolours and symbols representing their own country. The presence of military personnel dressed in uniform highlights the conquest and invasion that took place. Amidst all this chaos stands Agoli-agbo, portrayed as a puppet king manipulated by his French overlords. His parasol signifies his newfound royal status but also hints at his lack of true sovereignty. Oswaldo Tofani masterfully brings together elements of war, power dynamics, and colonialism in this thought-provoking piece. Through vibrant colors and meticulous attention to detail, he transports us back to a defining moment in African history when kingdoms were toppled and foreign influence prevailed. As we reflect on this image today, it serves as a reminder of Africa's complex relationship with colonization during the nineteenth century – an era marked
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