19th Century Bronze Head of a Benin King (Oba) -- 16.5\" H x 9.5\" W For Sale

19th Century Bronze Head of a Benin King (Oba) -- 16.5" H x 9.5" W

This Benin head may date to the mid-nineteenth century. The extreme degree of stylization, swollen cheeks and enlarged eyes, the size of the flange at the base, the weight of the casting, and the winglike projections attached to the crowns are characteristics of casting during this later period of Benin royal court

The Benin king is called Oba and exercised rule over the kingdom of Benin.

Benin bronze casting was a court art, with the bronzes made soley for the King by master bronze casters. Bronze heads and bust sculptures were typical works made by this guild of casters. The Benin bronze heads gave a picture of the king adorned in his royal regalia. This consisted of a crown made of pure coral abd dress adorned with coral beads and rings of coral. As scene in this Benin head, the concetric rings represent rings of coral. The head also includes what was referred to as the staff of power. Two swords called the Ada and Eben.

The Edo people of Benin, now part of modern Nigeria, ruled much of West Africa when the Portuguese arrived there in the 15th century. The bronze head would have been owned by an Oba, or King of Benin. They were traditionally made in the royal foundry to commemorate a King's predecessor. Heads such as these were created between the late 14th and 19th centuries and symbolised the ruler's authority and power. The hole on top would once have supported a carved ivory tusk.

The royal arts of bronze casting and ivory carving were under the Oba's direct control. The heads were cast using the 'lost wax' technique. A wax model was created, which was buried in sand or clay. Then it was heated; causing the wax to melt into the surrounding material and leave a hollow shape. Molten bronze (a durable alloy of copper with other metals) was poured into the mould and when it had solidified the mould was broken away, which meant that every casting was unique