A Benin Bronze altar bell of trapezoidal form, surmounted by a seated figure of the Benin Oba. The ruler wears a feathered headdress, sleeveless robe with breastplate, and bangles, and holds ritual objects in his hands. The bell body is decorated with abstract faces and serpent motifs, while the other sides feature openwork lattice with a central mudfish and incised wave patterns. Braided bands frame the edges. Between the Oba’s feet is the bell clapper, producing a clear, rounded sound. Such bells were used on Benin ancestral altars to summon the ancestors during rituals.
Omorogbe Aigbe, Benin Altar Brass Bell; Bronze-cast (lost-wax), Private Collection, Benin City
HIGHPOLY MODEL INCLUDED IN ADDITIONAL FILES