Sterling Silver ‘The Benin Mask’

The Benin Mask

Crafted from sterling silver. Comes with a 50 or 60cm chain. Please leave your chosen chain length in the notes box in the cart if you selected a chain option.
PLEASE NOTE: We currently have one in stock . But these pieces are usually made to order so please allow up to 14 days to complete. 
Comes with a year warranty. 

This Benin Ivory Mask is a miniature sculptural portrait of the Queen Mother Idia of the 16th century Benin Empire. The sculpture takes the form of a traditional African mask and features a beaded headdress and choker at her neck.

 This type of hip-mask was worn by the King, during important ceremonies. He would wear the mask, slightly larger than nine inches, around his waist while he danced to dismiss unfriendly spirits.

The mask represents Queen Mother Idia, who was the mother of Esigie, a renowned ruler of the Edo people who ruled in the early 1500s. The Queen Mother was a great warrior and played a very significant role in the reign of her son.

 The mask, which has been described as one of the most beautiful pieces of ancient African art, was taken from the royal palace at Benin City during the British punitive military expedition of 1897.