Head of Queen Iyoba

The commemorative heads seem to date from the time of the Ogiso, as the kings of Igodomigodo were called, the name given to the kingdom of Benin by Igoddo, their first king until Eweka changed the name of the kingdom to Edo and the monarch to Oba, which would later be known as the Kingdom of Benin. These heads are a symbol of the continuity and permanence of royalty. They were meant to honor ancestors in family altars, while beautifying them. At first they were made of wood or clay, difficult to preserve throughout the times. These heads representing Queen Mother Oba were the replica of the owner's face, in a size equivalent to about two thirds of the original. From the wood or clay they passed to metal, bronze, actually brass with a significant proportion of zinc, with a central upper hole in which a finely sculpted elephant tusk was inserted. The glowing color of bronze or brass helped to keep the forces away from evil.

Here we have the representation of a small head beautifully made with a multitude of details and an expression of dignity and serenity.