250439 - Large Oba Bronze Royal Court Dwarf sculpture - Benin - Nigeria.
Large Oba Bronze Royal court Dwarf sculpture - Bini Edo - Benin.
Height: 40 cm.
Dwarfs played a very specific role at the court of Oba in Benin. They were there to cheer up the prince and to speak the truth in a lighthearted way.
This bronze statue of a royal dwarf from Benin is a unique and rare piece. It is handmade using the lost wax technique, a complex process that requires a lot of craftsmanship.
The statue shows a royal dwarf, an important figure in the court of Benin. Dwarfs were often used as messengers or courtiers and were considered to be creatures with magical powers.
This statue is in a bad condition, the right arm is torn and there is also a fracture in the left hip. ( see photos) but has a beautiful patina. It is a unique collector's item that will be a valuable addition to any African art collection