The master sculptors of Benin created some of
the most distinctive and beautiful works of art
anywhere in Africa. This is not to say they were
uninfluenced by art from other regions; and in
this very lovely hip ornament we see traces of
different cultures which may have inspired the
artist. The basic style of the face is typical of
Benin bronzes, with its elongated forehead,
narrow chin and delicate detail. The striations or
scarification on the face are reminiscent of Ife
terracotta heads, and it is not unreasonable to
assume a Benin artist came into contact with
works of his neighbors. The snakes surrounding
the forehead, slithering down the nose and
forming a beard-moustache add an unusual
aspect, and remind us of the Djenne culture
which venerated snakes as symbols of fertility
and power. This mask would have been worn by
an Oba as part of his court dress at important
ceremonies. The closed eyes and small lips give
the ornament a gentle quality, as if he is
dreaming of something very beautiful. To be in
its presence is to feel at peace, as if we too are
part of its pleasant dreams.
- (PF.4936)
|
