Grand Leopard Yoruba - Yoruba - Nigeria (No reserve price)

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€ 15
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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 - € 180
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itBidder 5321 €15

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Grand léopard yoruba, a bronze sculpture from Nigeria in the Yoruba tradition, dating to 2000–2010, with provenance in a private collection, measuring 39 cm high by 34 cm wide by 14 cm deep.

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Description from the seller

Benin bronze leopards are iconic sculptures from the Benin Kingdom, located in what is now the Edo region of Nigeria. Created using a lost-wax casting technique, these works of art demonstrate great craftsmanship and attention to detail. Often depicted in dynamic, lifelike poses, the leopards symbolize power, agility, and authority. Used in ceremonial and ornamental contexts, these bronzes adorned the royal palace and served as a testament to the status and grandeur of the Oba (king) of Benin.

Beyond their aesthetic value, the bronze leopards possess profound cultural and spiritual significance. They are associated with royalty and protection, embodying the strength and nobility of the Oba. Looted by British colonial forces at the end of the 19th century, these precious objects are now at the heart of discussions on the restitution of cultural heritage. Displayed in museums around the world, the bronze leopards continue to fascinate and serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving the artistic and historical legacy of the Kingdom of Benin.

Benin bronze leopards are iconic sculptures from the Benin Kingdom, located in what is now the Edo region of Nigeria. Created using a lost-wax casting technique, these works of art demonstrate great craftsmanship and attention to detail. Often depicted in dynamic, lifelike poses, the leopards symbolize power, agility, and authority. Used in ceremonial and ornamental contexts, these bronzes adorned the royal palace and served as a testament to the status and grandeur of the Oba (king) of Benin.

Beyond their aesthetic value, the bronze leopards possess profound cultural and spiritual significance. They are associated with royalty and protection, embodying the strength and nobility of the Oba. Looted by British colonial forces at the end of the 19th century, these precious objects are now at the heart of discussions on the restitution of cultural heritage. Displayed in museums around the world, the bronze leopards continue to fascinate and serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving the artistic and historical legacy of the Kingdom of Benin.

Details

No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Yoruba
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
2000-2010
Material
Bronze
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Grand Leopard Yoruba
Height
39 cm
Width
34 cm
Depth
14 cm
Provenance
Private collection
ItalyVerified
486
Objects sold
98.51%
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