Bearing a fine dark patina this altar head wears a
headdress of "coral" beads, with three star-like
clusters attached. Four "coral" beaded strands
(erhu-ivie), two either side of the ears and the
single braided strands with dual cylindrical
beads, hang to the base. The hole at the top of
the head was intended for the insertion of a
tusk. Neck rings composed of separate
"lozenges" covers the chin to the lower lip.
Beautifully modelled and very expressive, the eye
lids are incised with short slashes, which further
heightens the intensity of the wide open pupils.
Six keloids (protruding scarification) line the
upper forehead on both sides of a central bead
extension. Such bronze heads as this one were
placed as part of the furnishings of a shrine,
which an Oba (king) commanded to be set up in
memory of his immediately deceased
predecessor on assuming the throne.
- (PF.5143)
|
