Coral and Red stone beads
Courtesy: Trustees of the British Museum

This image showcases a crown and fly whisk originating from Nigeria, Edo: Court of Benin. Within African kingdoms like Benin, ownership of coral and stone beads is exclusive to the Oba, who distributes them to chiefs, titleholders, and members of palace associations. These coral beads signify status and prosperity, as evidenced by the lavishness of the wearer's beaded attire and the divine authority imbued within each bead.

Location: The Museum of Mankind, London.