Lost Wax

Each Lost Wax Playing Cards deck contains 54 illustrated playing cards, depicting royal figures of the Benin Empire between the 15th and 19th centuries. The Benin Empire, which flourished in what is now southern Nigeria, left an impressive legacy in the form of bronze plaques, commissioned by the king (Oba) to decorate the courtyards of his palace. This card game pays homage to this flourishing period in Nigerian history and brings this forgotten era back to life in a colorful and playful way, rooted in modernity. A game full of historical symbols: The face cards represent four kings of Benin, four Queen Mothers and four valets (court servants). These illustrations are inspired by traditional sculptural forms created to honor the royal ancestors of the Beninese nation. The Ace of Spades also has a special meaning: it represents a king with fish legs, a cosmological figure symbolizing the connection between the king of Benin, ruler of the mainland, and Olokun, god of the great waters. These cards breathe new life into Nigerian popular culture.As indigenous traditions lose their luster in the face of the rise of modern popular culture, these historical symbols are finding new life here. If Nigeria's prosperous past becomes evident and accessible through these maps, then perhaps the idea of a brighter future will no longer seem so distant.Features: Artwork inspired by the history of the Benin Empire Printed by the United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) 54 custom cards Poker size