African Benin bronze statue, tribal sculpture ethnic decor African art

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Figurative statue depicting a standing figure, made of bronze using the traditional African modeling technique. The work presents an elongated silhouette, with an oversized head and stylized features characteristic of Benin art. The face is adorned with large round eyes, a straight nose, and a prominent mouth. The complex headdress, topped with vertical motifs, recalls the royal or ceremonial attributes observed in the statuary of the Kingdom of Benin.

The bronze surface shows a nuanced patina, alternating brown, green, and blue-gray tones, typical of ancient alloys exposed to open air. The figure's garment, richly decorated with crisscross geometric patterns, covers the entire body, with the exception of the bare hands and feet. Several necklaces and ornaments are visible around the neck and on the chest, emphasizing the stately character of the piece.

The arms are slightly bent, the hands open and detailed, one holding a cylindrical object. The details of the costume, including a belt and embossed accessories, testify to meticulous work. The whole is treated in a hieratic style, with a marked frontality and a frozen posture, typical of African court sculptures. No text or markings are visible on the shown part.

The statue rests on a flat base, integrated into the sculpture, without a distinct plinth. The bronze texture reveals traces of casting and oxidation, reinforcing the authentic and artisanal aspect of the object. The piece is photographed on a raw wooden table, in an environment evoking a heritage or religious space.

Condition

Used item and sold as is. Visible presence of patina, surface wear, and slight traces of oxidation typical of hand-worked bronze. No chips or apparent missing parts on the visible side.

Did you know? The famous bronzes of Benin, produced from the 13th century, were made using the lost-wax technique. They were used to adorn the royal palace of Abomey and often represented rulers, dignitaries, or court scenes, illustrating the power and wealth of the kingdom.

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Keywords: African bronze statue, Benin sculpture, African tribal art, ethnic figure, African statuette, decorative bronze, African bronze statue, Benin art, handcrafted sculpture, African decor, royal figure, patinated bronze