xvi, 225 pages, 8 unnumbered pages of plates illustrations (black and white, and colour), map 26 cm
Type:
Books
History
Place:
Nigeria, Southern
Nigeria (Sud)
Southern Nigeria
Nigeria
Süd
Date:
2021
Notes:
Reviewed by Raymond A. Silverman in African arts (Los Angeles) 56 (4) winter 2023, pages 95-96. (N1.A258 AFA)
AFA copy 39088019763713 gift from Janet Stanley.
Contents:
Introduction: Fagg's Prophecy, Previous Research, and Lower Niger Bronze Forms -- Historical and Ethnographic Background -- Southern Nigerian Copper-Alloy Components, Sources, and Analyses -- Manillas and Bracelets -- Replicas, Skeumorphs and Vessels -- The Ọvọ/Ọfọ/Ovuo Complex -- Human and Humanoid Figures -- Heads, Faces, and Costume Masks -- Leopard Skulls, Ram's Heads, Hippopotami, and Other Creatures -- "Pectorals, Hip Ornaments, and Waist Pendants" or Pendant Plaques -- Bells and Bell Heads -- Scepter Finials and the "Aro Knot" -- "Tsoede Bronzes," "Enowe's Girdle," and "Death Rings" -- The End Game: Possible Solutions for an Ongoing Puzzle
Summary:
"This book demonstrates that copper alloy casting was widespread in southern Nigeria and has been practiced for at least a millennium. Philip M. Peek's research provides a critical context for the better known casting traditions of Igbo-Ukwu, Ife, and Benin. Both the necessary ores and casting skills were widely available contrary to previous scholarly assumptions. The majority of the Lower Niger Bronzes, which we know number in the thousands, are of subjects not found elsewhere, such as leopard skull replicas, grotesque bell heads, ritual objects, and humanoid figures. Important puzzle pieces are now in place to permit a more complete reconstruction of southern Nigerian history. The book will be of interest to scholars working in art history, African studies, African history, and anthropology"-- Provided by publisher
