The Crowned Head of an Oni is a zinc-brass sculpture from Ife, dating between the 12th and 15th centuries CE. It depicts a highly naturalistic human face with refined features, including almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, and full lips. The surface of the face is covered with vertical striations, which may represent scarification patterns or symbolic markings.
The head is adorned with an intricately detailed beaded crown, featuring a prominent crest-like ornament at the front. This element emphasizes the subject’s royal status, as crowns were significant symbols of divine kingship in Ife culture.
Source: Omorogbe, Aigbe. Crowned Head of an Oni, Bronze-cast(lost-wax), Private collection, Benin city
HIGHPOLY MODEL INCLUDED