Portuguese trade contact established at Benin

European trade with Benin began with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1486 (probably in the reign of Ozolua). This introduced a new source of wealth largely controlled by the crown and helped consolidate the monarchy; large quantities of imported brass enabled Esigie to foster the royal art of brasscasting. At the end of the 15th century Portuguese visitors were told the Oba received investiture from a distant potentate (Ogane), likely the Oni of Ife.