Old Royal Jewelry Chest from the Yoruba, Benin Style, Nigeria
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The famous Benin kingdom and its art flourished in the 15th and 16th century. Even after the Benin kingdom disappeared, the Yoruba people – living on its territory – continued to produce artwork inspired by the great royal art of Benin. The bronze casting process dates back to the late 1200s for the Benin. I am sure that the face on top is not the inspired representation of Queen Mother Idia… a warrior queen who fought for her son (Oba Esigie) in battle in the 16th Century but I am sure this is an older piece of bronze using the Lost Wax Process. I am also sure that this item is a Yoruba Jewelry Chest that once housed royal jewels. At the price listed, I cannot include any of the royal jewels, sorry.
For the Serious Collector.
SOLD! Thanks C.R. !!