IFE, NIGERIA
CERAMIC, HEIGHT 22CM

This is a replica or very similar to a very famous bronze statue of the Oni(king), displayed at the National Museum in Lagos.  The oldest known statues were originally made in bronze and terracotta between the 12th and 15th centuries. Probably they were carved out of wood as well, but none has survived. It is not unusual for the same theme to be repeated for centuries by different artists. The intricate detail is masterfully executed.