H x W x D: 58.3 x 31 x 24.5 cm (22 15/16 x 12 3/16 x 9 5/8 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
Benin City, Nigeria
Date:
Early to mid-20th century
Label Text:
In the Benin Kingdom, the king (oba) had the exclusive right to display cast copper alloy commemorative heads on altars to his ancestors. According to oral tradition, Oba Osemwede (reign c.1816-1848) gave permission for certain chiefs in the capital city to place human form wood heads on their family altars. These heads could also be placed on private altars dedicated to the individual's head, his ability to organize his destiny. The heads have representations of the coral beads that are bestowed by the oba as an emblem of rank and office and the feather in the cap that is a sign of chieftaincy. The coconut shell inlay on the forehead identifies a male Edo.
Description:
Wood head with sheet brass nailed on to a form beaded hat and collar and eyes and forehead scarification inlaid with coconut shell.
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