This remarkable plaque is one of several works that were made by an Edo brass caster who experimented with a more narrative compositional style. This plaque’s theme is not entirely clear. It would have been extremely unusual for the Portuguese to hunt leopards, given the cat’s powerful association with the oba and the restrictions on its killing. The cats featured on this plaque are fabulous composite creatures with leopard spots, three-pronged tails, and tufts of fur at their necks. It is possible that a European aquamanile—a decorative vessel for pouring water—in the form of a fantastic lionlike creature inspired this imagery.