Tête de commemorative - Sculpture - Yoruba / Beni Edo - Benin (No reserve price)

Statue representing the head of a queen mother.


Benin art is described as court art because it is closely associated with the king, known as the Oba. The tradition of Ife bronze court objects dates back to the 14th century. The numerous brass heads and statues created by Benin artists were reserved for the exclusive use of the inhabitants of the royal palace and were most often placed on altars consecrated by each new Oba. These rectangular altars were adorned with heads, statues, carved ivory tusks, bells, and staffs. They served to commemorate an Oba and to connect with his spirit.