This large, standing figure of an Oba (king) is dressed in full ceremonial costume. He wears a long, lacy dress simulating coral with many necklaces draped around the chest and hanging low to the level of the knees. In his right hand, he holds a ceremonial fan-shaped eben, which the chiefs raise up to show their allegiance to their ancestors. Around his neck is a high collar worn by kings and queen mothers. His crown is an elaborate arrangement of projections with a central “spoke” and two flanges on either side. Such sculptures as this once would have been placed on the Oba’s ancestral altar to glorify Benin’s royal past. - (PF.5363)Benin Style Bronze Sculpture of an Oba - PF.5363Origin: Southcentral Nigeria Circa: 20 th Century ADDimensions: 50" (127.0cm) high Collection: African Style: Benin Medium: Bronze

Antiquities
Ancient Near East