Ife head Nigeria Bronze H.: 50 cm. Head with... Lot 28

Ife head Nigeria Bronze H.: 50 cm. Head with fine, realistic features, the face of which is covered with engraved parallel striations. The almond-shaped eyes are stretched, the nose is hemmed, the mouth is thick. The headdress is decorated with a feather. The grooves around the neck are a sign of great beauty among the Yoruba. These heads were hung on a wooden effigy, dressed to represent the deceased queen at a funeral, and then buried in a shrine. Object made specifically for colonial trade with obvious decorative interest. Consultant : Jean-Pierre LACOSTE