On the wedding day of Oba Akenzua II’s eldest daughter, Princess Egbe to Engr Elo Ogbeidi-Iheme In 1956.

The princess is seen here seated on her father’s lap, before he gives her in ‘native law and customs’ to his future son-in-law.

The Oba broke the tradition by allowing his daughters to choose their husbands for themselves.

Traditionally the eldest princess marries the Iyase, and the second-born marries the Esogban.

Photo: S.O. Alonge, 1956 (copyright Flora Edouwaye S. Kaplan)

source: Benin Kings and Rituals

Court Arts from Nigeria