20% Off & Free Shipping for Members with Code SEP18
Head of an Iyoba Sculpture
This beautiful reproduction celebrates a magnificent commemorative head of an iyoba in the Met's collection. The original cast-brass head was created in the 18th–19th century in the Benin kingdom, where the iyoba, or mother of the oba(king), occupies a significant place within Benin's political hierarchy. The title was first conferred upon Idia, the mother of king Esigie, who used her political skill and supernatural abilities to save her son's kingdom from dissolution in the late 15th century. Ever since, queen mothers have been considered powerful protectors of their sons and the kingdom itself. Ancestral altars dedicated to past iyobas are furnished with commemorative heads such as this one. Its high collar and pierced crown place it among later examples, yet the sensitive modeling of the face is reminiscent of the earliest known heads.
This beautiful reproduction celebrates a magnificent commemorative head of an iyoba in the Met's collection. The original cast-brass head was created in the 18th–19th century in the Benin kingdom, where the iyoba, or mother of the oba(king), occupies a significant place within Benin's political hierarchy. The title was first conferred upon Idia, the mother of king Esigie, who used her political skill and supernatural abilities to save her son's kingdom from dissolution in the late 15th century. Ever since, queen mothers have been considered powerful protectors of their sons and the kingdom itself. Ancestral altars dedicated to past iyobas are furnished with commemorative heads such as this one. Its high collar and pierced crown place it among later examples, yet the sensitive...See More
- Bonded bronze
- 5 1/2'' diam.; 11''H
- Gift wrap not available
| Standard flat-rate shipping (3–5 days) | $7.95 |
| Expedited US shipping (2 days) | $13.95 extra |
| Overnight shipping | $22.95 extra |
The above rates apply to orders shipped within the contiguous 48 US states. For rates to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and other countries, please see our Shipping & Handling page.
If for any reason you are not fully satisfied with your order, you may return the merchandise within 180 days from the date of purchase. See our Returns page.
