Lot Essay
Wooden memorial heads were dedicated by male chiefs to their ancestors and placed on special altars. They have a hollow channel in the back for the insertion of a wooden rod which is rattled in ceremonies.
UHUMWELAO, FOR THE ANCESTRAL ALTARS
Details
A BENIN HEAD
Uhumwelao, for the ancestral altars
With carved coral headdress and choker, feather to one side, some applied brass strips, extensive erosion
49cm. high
Uhumwelao, for the ancestral altars
With carved coral headdress and choker, feather to one side, some applied brass strips, extensive erosion
49cm. high
Special notice
Christie's charge a buyer's premium of 20% (VAT inclusive) for this lot.