Lot 294
West Africa, Benin and Nigeria, Yorubaland, Yoruba peoples, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A fine cast-brass horse figurine with a narrow body, slender legs with protruding knees and rounded hooves, and a curved tail with incised striations representing hair. The raised head bears a slender snout and perky ears framed with an intricate bridle, and surmounting the animal are two riders. Both nude riders have elongated heads with ovoid eyes and puffy lips, and the back rider is a woman based on the pendulous breasts. Fine patina envelops the entire figure. While bronze equestrian examples like this used to depict warriors, foreigners, or rulers, they are typically used as gifts for newlywed couples to symbolize their unity. Size: 3.9" L x 4.625" H (9.9 cm x 11.7 cm)
For a stylistically similar example with a single rider, please see: Underwood, Leon. "Bronzes of West Africa." Alec Trianti Ltd., London, 1949, p. 76, fig. 44.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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#152713
- Condition: Slight bending to overall form of horse legs and riders, but figure still stands upright. Minor abrasions and encrustations, with light softening to some finer details, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.
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