20th Century "Ife" Copper Alloy Head, Yoruba People, Africa

Item Details

Artist unknown
Untitled, 20th century
Bronze sculpture
Unsigned

A 20th century Ife copper alloy head by the Yoruba People, Africa. The mask displays skillful technical achievement as well as an aesthetic appeal being highly naturalistic. With the exception of the eyes and lips, incised vertical striations cover the entire face and clusters of perforations accent the lips and nose. The cast heads are thought to be representations of rulers or Oni and were perhaps created for use during coronation rituals.

Condition

- even patina and oxidation to metal; dust and debris; rusting to the inside; some embrittlement and chipping to metal.

Dimensions

Item #

18DCC700-274