AFRICAN QUINTESSENCE

A gallery of the art of Africans

BENIN BRONZE ALTAR HEAD

(Circa/ 16^th century)

 This famous, but rare altar head depicts a Benin royal figure. It is considered to be from the early period of Benin art. The altar head is perhaps the most recognized icon of African art. It is believed to have gone through five stages of stylistic evolution. This altar head represents the second stage. Very naturalistic features distinguished the art of the early period (from the founding of the empire to the mid-16th century). In this case, the crown, sometimes referred to as The 'Bini wig’, and the high neck ‘choker’ were made of coral beads. The outstanding craftsmanship of the period is evident even through the years of encrusted patina. 10 inches tall.

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