benin altar head
ethnic group: edo, benin kingdom
country of origin: nigeria
material: metal (bronze)
aproximate age: 18th century
dimentions: 12" x 10"
overall condition: excellent
provenance: chief ogedegbe , the esere of benin kingdom
the cylindrical shape, beaded collar covering the chin and bead clusters to the crown ientify this benin head as belonging to the eighteenth century.
the crown, with it crisscrossed bead pattern and junctures marked by a dot in the center, is characteristic of this period, as are the three raised marks above each eye which are called ikharo, believed to represten scarification marks. Men would usually have three, while women and foreigners would wear four.
excellently detailed craftsmanship. excellent condition.
pricing available on request
for serious enquiries please contact
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