Benin Mask
Museum-grade artifact
20th century
Nigeria
Certificate of Authenticity
Benin Mask
Nigeria
An expanded Edo mask of radial composition, structured through a double register of relief heads and a pronounced openwork perimeter.
Description
A mask of expanded, radial composition, attributed to the Edo.
The face is set within a structured surround composed in two registers: above, a crosshatched coiffure rises to a ring of small, repeating head elements; below, an openwork arc carries a second series of smaller heads, contained within a serrated outer edge that extends the composition outward. Horizontal bar elements extend laterally at ear level, anchoring the structure.
The facial features are compact and composed — almond-shaped eyes beneath arched brows, a short nose, and a closed mouth — held within a smooth surface that contrasts with the densely worked textures of the surrounding structure.
Patina is deep and even across the face, with slight softening at raised planes consistent with handling.
Context
Within the Benin Kingdom, artistic production was embedded within the royal court and governed by established guild systems under the Oba. Masks functioned within ceremonial frameworks rather than as independent works.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection
Acquired in Nigeria, 1984
Available on private enquiry.
Choose options
Interested or have questions about this piece? contact us
We are happy to walk you through the details, you can ask any question about provenance, context and authenticity.
We will get back to you in less than a day.
Protected Purchase