Queen Idia FESTAC ’77 Mask Fridge Magnet

In 1977, Nigeria hosted the world. The Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture — FESTAC ’77 — brought over 17,000 artists, scholars, and performers from 56 nations to Lagos in what remains the largest pan-African cultural gathering in history. Its symbol was the face of Queen Idia: a 16th-century Queen Mother of the Benin Empire, cast in ivory, staring forward with the quiet authority of someone who changed the course of a kingdom.

This magnet carries that history. Rendered in fine 3D relief and available in antique bronze or sleek silver, it’s not just a fridge decoration — it’s a statement about where we come from and what we choose to remember.

Perfect for every occasion

A meaningful gift for anyone who values African history, Benin Kingdom heritage, or the cultural legacy of FESTAC ’77 — and a collector’s piece worthy of display long after it leaves the packaging.

Product details

Each magnet is crafted to capture the intricate details of Queen Idia’s traditional headdress, coral bead collar, and distinctive facial markings — faithful to the original ivory mask that became Nigeria’s most recognised cultural artefact.

Bulk & gifting orders

The Queen Idia magnet is a sophisticated choice for institutional gifts, cultural event souvenirs, and Nigerian heritage gift boxes. It pairs naturally with our other Nigeria souvenir pieces to create a curated collection that tells the full story of Nigerian history and culture.

Who was Queen Idia?

Queen Idia was the mother of Oba Esigie, who ruled the Benin Empire in the early 16th century. She is celebrated as the first woman to command an army in Benin history — a warrior queen who fought to place her son on the throne and guided the empire through one of its most powerful eras. After her death, master craftsmen of the Benin Kingdom carved her likeness in ivory, creating what would become one of the most iconic works of African art ever produced.

When FESTAC ’77 needed a symbol — one image to represent the entire pan-African world gathering — Nigeria chose Queen Idia’s mask. It appeared on every official piece of the festival, from posters to programmes to medals, and became permanently linked to one of Africa’s proudest cultural moments.

At African Things, we believe this history belongs on more than museum walls. It belongs in homes, on fridges, in conversations — kept alive by the people who carry it forward.

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