Queen Mother Head Sculpture Item Number: K2.442 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Cast bronze, hollow female head. On the head is an elaborate headdress or hairstyle, starting at the hair line and culminating in a cone-shaped projection at the top of the head.

History Of Use

Related to the memorial cult of the Queen Mother.

Cultural Context

Thought to be a contemporary reproduction.

Specific Techniques

XRF analysis suggests the piece is made of gunmetal (also called 'red brass' - a bronze alloy) with a high bismuth content.

Item History

What

Name
Queen Mother Head Sculpture
Identification Number
K2.442
Type of Item
sculpture
Material
bronze metal
Manufacturing Technique
cast
Overall
height 48.0 cm, width 20.0 cm

Who

Culture
Edo ?
Previous Owner
Walter C. Koerner
Received from
Walter C. Koerner (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Benin City, Edo, Nigeria

When

Ownership Date
before 1972
Acquisition Date
during 1972

Other

Item Classes
metalwork
Accession Number
0160/0103