Bronze head - Ife - Benin–Nigeria

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Julien Gauthier
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Selected by Julien Gauthier

With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
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Bronze head from the Ife region, Benin-Nigeria, titled “Tête en bronze”, dating 2000–2010, measuring 54 cm high by 14 cm deep and 14 cm wide, with 1 object and no stand, in good condition.

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Description from the seller

Bronze head – Ife – Benin, Nigeria

Originating from the Ife region, in Benin and Nigeria, this bronze head reflects a craftsmanship of great precision, characteristic of Ife workshops. Known for their naturalistic rendering, these representations were linked to royal spheres and ritual practices, evoking both authority, memory, and transmission. Obtained by a demanding casting process, this work is distinguished by the finesse of its features, the accuracy of its proportions, and the quality of its surface treatment, signaling a high level of formal mastery and a strong symbolic significance.

In a contemporary approach, this piece captivates with the purity of its lines and the mastery of its volumes, which give it a visual presence that is both elegant and assertive. The subtle work on the face, combined with a rigorous balance, creates an evident link with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. This sculpture testifies to the ability of ancient works to retain all their expressive power, while integrating harmoniously into a contemporary space.

Bronze head – Ife – Benin, Nigeria

Originating from the Ife region, in Benin and Nigeria, this bronze head reflects a craftsmanship of great precision, characteristic of Ife workshops. Known for their naturalistic rendering, these representations were linked to royal spheres and ritual practices, evoking both authority, memory, and transmission. Obtained by a demanding casting process, this work is distinguished by the finesse of its features, the accuracy of its proportions, and the quality of its surface treatment, signaling a high level of formal mastery and a strong symbolic significance.

In a contemporary approach, this piece captivates with the purity of its lines and the mastery of its volumes, which give it a visual presence that is both elegant and assertive. The subtle work on the face, combined with a rigorous balance, creates an evident link with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. This sculpture testifies to the ability of ancient works to retain all their expressive power, while integrating harmoniously into a contemporary space.

Details

Number of objects
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Ife
Country of Origin
Benin–Nigeria
Period
2000-2010
Material
Bronze
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Bronze head
Height
54 cm
Width
14 cm
Depth
14 cm
FranceVerified
7807
Objects sold
95.07%
pro

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