UHUMWELAO, FOR THE ANCESTRAL ALTARS

Details

A BENIN HEAD
Uhumwelao, for the ancestral altars
With carved coral headdress and choker, feather to one side, the keloids on the forehead and the eyes each recessed for the inlay, crusty patina
46cm. high

Special notice

Christie's charge a buyer's premium of 20.825% of the hammer price for lots with values up to NLG 200,000. If the hammer price exceeds the NLG 200,000 then the premium is calculated at 20.825% of the first NLG 200,000 plus 11.9% of any amount in excess of NLG 200,000.

Lot Essay

Wooden memorial heads were dedicated by male chiefs to their ancestors and placed on special altars. They have a hollow chamber at the back for the insertion of a wooden rod which is rattled during ceremonies

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