Commemorative head of royal ancestor lyoba Bini... Lot 19

Commemorative head of royal ancestor lyoba Bini / Edo Kingdom of Benin / Nigeria Brass H.: 49.5 cm. Lost wax object representing a head resting on a neck surrounded by rows of engraved pearls, characteristic of commemorative heads. The face, with its naturalistic features of almond-shaped eyes and a fleshy mouth, is framed by three braids falling on the temples. The head is crowned by a conical cap decorated with concentric circles in relief and pointed appendages. It was covered with a net of coral beads. Object made specifically for colonial trade with obvious decorative interest. Consultant : Jean-Pierre LACOSTE