A striking 20th-century bronze portrait bust from Nigeria, created in the artistic tradition of the historic Benin Kingdom.
The Kingdom of Benin, centered in present-day Benin City, Nigeria, is renowned for its extraordinary tradition of metal casting. For centuries, highly skilled artists working for the royal court created sculptural portraits and commemorative heads using the lost-wax casting technique.
This later example draws from that rich artistic tradition, with an expressive face, elaborate headdress and beautifully textured surface. Substantial in both scale and weight, the bust has a strong sculptural presence and works beautifully displayed on a pedestal, console, bookshelf or among a collection of global art and objects.
Origin: Nigeria, West Africa
Culture/Tradition: Benin / Edo
Period: 20th Century
Material: Bronze / copper alloy
Dimensions: 13.5"H × 6"W at widest point
Weight: 7 lbs. 5 oz.
Vintage condition with surface variation and patina consistent with age and the handmade casting process.
