Global Art & Artifacts

nigeria

Bronze Passport Mask.  Igbo Tribe.  Lost Wax.  Igbo-Ukwu. Nigeria.

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    The people of Igbo-Ukwu (southeast of Onitsha), ancestors of present-day Igbo, were proficient in metal working art in the 9th century (+ or – years depending on what expert you speak with). They are thought to be the earliest smithers (hammering, bending, twisting & incising) of copper and… Continue reading

Rare Yoruba Fetish Figure.  Statue.  Wood. Southwestern Nigeria. Africa.

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    The Yoruba peoples inhabit a large part of southwestern Nigeria.  They have been known to place their trust in the powers of the fetish to assist them during times of need.  A fetish – aka Nkisi – is a wood carving that the village… Continue reading

Yoruba Sango Gelede Helmet Mask, Nigeria Africa

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Found in Yorubaland (southern Nigeria), this helmet mask represents Sango a royal ancestor of the Yoruba (the third king of the Oyo Kingdom). Facial “Pele” markings on the checks.   This is probably a ceremonial mask. Carved from one piece of wood, the incrusted patina and distinctive features put this… Continue reading

Bronze Queen’s Head, Benin, Southern Nigeria, Africa

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Detail: The Benin Kingdom (in their artistic splendor in the 15th and 16th Centuries) was located in West Africa bordering Nigeria and Togo. Clans were subjected to an oba (king) rule and the making of these “Benin Style” bronzes were strictly “court art” from the palace of the oba. These… Continue reading

Wood Hippo, Nigeria Africa

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Detail: This is an older hand carved wooden hippopotamus. Solid wood with nice grain lines. I believe it is carved from fruitwood. Most likely carved in the 1950s or 1960s. Good condition with only minor blemishes. Sorry, but this item as been sold.
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