Description
Type of object |
Head |
Ethnic group | Benin |
Country of origini | Nigeria |
Material | Bronze |
Dimensions | 11″ x 3″ x 4″ |
Approximate age | 90 |
Item description and ethnic group | The heads were placed on the altars of kings, of brass caster corporation chiefs and dignitaries. Occasionally, a brass head was surmounted by a carved ivory tusk engraved with a procession of different obas. The altar functioned as a tribute to the deceased and a point of contact with his spirit. Using the bells and rattle stuffs to call the ancestor’s spirit, the oba offered sacrifices to him and to the earth on the altar. The majority of figures represented court officials, equestrian figures, queens, and roosters. |
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