Superb example of a late 19th century Ife bronze head with a remarkably fine patina.

These bronze Ife heads were modeled on the rare, much earlier and well known examples that were made during the height of the Ife culture between the 12th and 14th century.

Our research dates this example to the later part of the 19th century, the patina and the verdi-gris on both the exterior and the interior is spectacular and also points to this date.

This piece was donated by a collector in NYC to a local charity shop, we bought it there.

The solid bronze head stands approximately 15.5" tall and weighs a little over 12 pounds.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: The bronze head shows patina, variation of color and areas of heavier oxidation on both the exterior and interior surfaces, all typical of age and storage method.

There are holes modeled around the crown of the head which were a design element, there are also some holes around the top of the head which look like imperfections in the bronze casting process. Please see the last few photos for the close-up details.

Origin:
Nigeria

Materials & Techniques:
Bronze

Details:
Art Subjects: Figure
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: Nigeria

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; The bronze head shows patina, variation of color and areas of heavier oxidation on both the exterior and interior surfaces, all typical of age and storage method.

There are holes modeled around the crown of the head which were a design element, there are also some holes around the top of the head which look like imperfections in the bronze casting process. Please see the last few photos for the close-up details.