A 35" Benin bronze vessel with a cover on top of King Oba. The sides have two heads, also of kings. The vessel's base is surrounded by serpents. The serpent is a traditional indication of showing the divinity, wealth, prestige, harmony, and power of King Oba. In Benin, this vessel was endowed with sacred power, the shape showing the power of the king over the earth and was used to store precious jewelry and also to hold food consumed during the rituals of the Edo religious and political leaders known as Oba. Oba was the King in Benin, Nigeria. The first Edo ancestor died, whose body was miraculously transformed into a snake after his death. In association with regeneration and renewal, the cult is charged with maintaining the earth's fertility and ensuring the protection and well-being of Edo society. This vessel's large size and visual elaboration indicate its importance in the life of the Edo community.

Overall Good condition in consideration of origin and age. The lid fits loosely over the vessel mouth. Some deterioration to the bronze at the bottom of the vessel well.

35 x 15.5 x 21 in

75 lb