14th century, 15th century, Africa, figurine, fooleum, primary source
This beautiful brass figurine is striking and all the more so for being a rare sign of court dwarfs (or jesters?) in Africa.  Dated to 14th-15th century Edo, capital of the Kingdom of Benin (not related to the modern-day country of Benin). GAP MAP: More research...
20th century, Africa, historical figure, quotes
A commonly mentioned feature of the court jester is their acknowledged but informal and ill-defined ‘licence’ to speak out, mock, criticize, tell the truth. Here is a striking description of a caste (or even out-caste) of clowns said to have had...
