Rare Benin Leopard Hip Mask for Oba, Africa (17th-18th c.)

This piece is a hip ornament, designed to be worn on the left hip by the Oba (chief), as the leopard was the animal with which the Oba was most strongly associated. As a general rule, fine casting with thin metal seems to have been particularly notable in the 16th and 17th centuries, while more robust and interpretationalist pieces are more common from the mid 18th century onwards. The refined and delicate work of this piece thus suggests an earlier date.

- Bronze (brass)
- 17th-18th c.
- Benin
- From a Private New York Collection
- H: 6 in. W: 4 in.

Each item will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

Excellent! No known fissures, or repairs.