An Uhunmwu-Elao commemorative head

An Uhunmwu-Elao commemorative head of an Ọba, in the style of Benin, casted in bronze, iron inlays as pupils, regalia of coral beads, a cap-like crown and a high collar of coral necklaces. On the round base to the left and right of the head is a small leopard, symbolizing the power and dignity of the Oba. Different layers of encrusted oxidations. Certificate of origin and provenance. 

After the death of an Oba, an altar was built for him in a closed courtyard of the Benin palace. One of the most important objects on these altars were memorial heads of the deceased cast from brass.A carved ivory tusk once rose from the calotte of these commemorative heads. Extensive rituals and regular sacrifices at this altar by the successor confirmed his ties to the royal ancestors and increased his spiritual power. See Digital Benin, the Uhunmwu-Elao commemorative heads.

Lit.: Felix von Luschan, Die Altertümer von Benin, Band 1, Berlin 1919, S. 355-358. Philip J. C. Dark: An introduction to Benin art and technology, Oxford 1973, S. 95.William Fagg, Bildwerke aus Nigeria, München 1963, S. 44. Armand Duchateau Benin. Kunst einer Afrikanischen Königskultur, München 1995, S. 45-53.

Height: 47 cm
Weight: 10,7 kg