Graffiti brings Benin's walls alive with treasures from the past - in pictures

Beninese artist Romario Agbo-Koffi, also known as Dr Mario, poses for a portrait at the Effet Graff festival in Cotonou. All photos: AFP
Beninese artist Romario Agbo-Koffi, also known as Dr Mario, poses for a portrait at the Effet Graff festival in Cotonou. All photos: AFP
Work by Beninese artist Lionel Attere, also known as Lionel Davinci, portraying the Guelede masks of Benin.
Work by Beninese artist Lionel Attere, also known as Lionel Davinci, portraying the Guelede masks of Benin.
Beninese graffiti artist Drusille Fagnibo is one of 26 artists participating in Effet Graff.
Beninese graffiti artist Drusille Fagnibo is one of 26 artists participating in Effet Graff.
Another piece by Dr Mario. The festival's aim is to achieve one of the longest murals in the world.
Another piece by Dr Mario. The festival's aim is to achieve one of the longest murals in the world.
Lionel Davinci in front of his artwork.
Lionel Davinci in front of his artwork.
Brazilian artist Dos Santos Edgar Bernado, also known as Ed-mun.
Brazilian artist Dos Santos Edgar Bernado, also known as Ed-mun.
Beninese artist Laurenson Djihouessi, also known as Mr Stone.
Beninese artist Laurenson Djihouessi, also known as Mr Stone.
Work by Ed-mun depicting one of the 26 royal treasures returned by France to Benin.
Work by Ed-mun depicting one of the 26 royal treasures returned by France to Benin.
Dr Mario gets creative.
Dr Mario gets creative.
Work by Togolese artist Sitou Matthia.
Work by Togolese artist Sitou Matthia.
Work by Lionel Davinci.
Work by Lionel Davinci.
Ed-mun adds the finishing touches to his piece of art.
Ed-mun adds the finishing touches to his piece of art.