Aged, bronze warrior, Benin, Benin City, 3rd quarter 20th century

Big, older bronze statue of a kneeled down Benin warrior. The warrior is seated in kneeled down position on a round surface with the portrayal of king Oba on it thrice. This way, the warrior symbolises his loyalty and dedication to the king. Superbly styled statue! Great detail. Refined face with parallel lines and a worked helmet. Around the neck is an amulet with a skull. The arms are spread, with a club and an axe in its hands. The feet are also finely worked; even the nails are visible. Around the ankles are ankle bands in multiple layers. The clothing is also decorated with diverse geometric patterns. Beautiful greenish patina and at the knees, there is some slight corrosion. With slight traces of use and aging, it is in good condition. The statue is shaped by means of the Cire Perdue method (lost wax), whereby the mould is lost in the moulding process. Hereby, this is a unique piece, a unicat!

Height: 45 cm
Width: 29,5 cm
Depth: 20 cm
Weight: 5270 grams
Origin: region Benin City, Nigeria
Date: 3rd quarter 20th century