Sculptural head 

Title: Sculptural Head
Culture: Yoruba (inspired by Ife)
Geographical Area of ​​Origin: Nigeria, West Africa
Date: 20th century
Material: Polychrome terracotta
Dimensions: h. 28 x 13 x 20 cm
Description: The sculpture represents a human head, made of terracotta and enriched with traces of red and black polychrome pigments. The face is rendered with stylized yet harmonious features. The upper part of the head is adorned with a dotted and geometric decoration, while the neck features multiple horizontal rings, symbolizing prestige and rank.
Cultural and Symbolic Context: They are one of the most significant artistic expressions of the cultures of the Yoruba area, particularly in Ife, the sacred center of civilization. They were created as idealized portraits of kings (obas) and dignitaries, used in ritual and commemorative contexts. The neck with multiple rings represents beauty and nobility, while the pigments had not only a decorative but also a ritual function, recalling vitality and sacredness.