A Queen mother brass head, Uhunmwun elao, in the style of Benin, Nigeria, the head mounted on a base with a cylindrical collar that covers the neck; with small round lips, short round nose and the bulging uneven eyes with distinct expression, several scarifications on the cheeks and forehead; the cone shaped hood pointed forward and adorned with several items. Signs of oxidations. Certificate of Origin and Provenance.

“In the Benin kingdom, the Iyoba, or mother of the oba (king), occupies an important and historically significant place within Benin's political hierarchy. The title was first conferred upon Idia, the mother of king Esigie, who used her political skill to save her son's kingdom from dissolution in the late fifteenth century. Ever since that time, queen mothers have been considered powerful protectors of their sons and, by extension, the kingdom itself. Because of the enormous esteem in which they are held, iyobas enjoy privileges second only to the oba himself, such as a separate palace, a retinue of female attendants, and the right to commission cast brass sculptures for religious or personal use.”
Source: The Met Museum, NY.

sold

Height: 46 cm
Weight: 5 kg