After the sack of Benin in 1897, various bronzes and ivories were brought to England. It was thought that the best were the work either of Portuguese or produced under their direct influence, while the remainder were made by Africans who, after Portuguese influence ended, gradually returned to barbarism. Stylized Benin bronzes are compared with earlier (subsequently discovered) Ife bronzes (and terracottas) which show faultless workmanship and an isolated naturalistic style. Except at Tadda in Nupe province, no related bronzes have been found. Theories by Frobenius, Ling Roth and Amaury Talbot as to the origin of the Ife bronzes are discussed. Legends of the neighboring Yoruba are examined. The source of materials used for various Nigerian bronzes would help to show their origin. Ancient lead and zinc mines exist in Ogoja province and tin was worked in Bauchi province. Small copper deposits are found in various locations within Nigeria and at neighboring Tegidda and Dafur. The author thinks that bronze working perhaps came into Nigeria via the Kushites, was practiced by the Yoruba after the 6th century, and perfected at Ife by the 13th century.